About the project
We're implementing lower speed limits during school travel times outside schools across Wellington that meet the requirements of new regulations.
Variable speed limits will apply within 150 metres of school gates. This is to improve safety for all road users, especially students, during school drop off and pick up times.
This change is required under national regulation, which mandates that all councils must implement safe school speed limits by 1 July 2026. It also reflects our commitment to making school streets safer. Improving the road environment around schools has long been a Council priority and this project supports our broader efforts to enhance safety and wellbeing for our whānau.
We'll use a mix of static and digital speed limit signs. Digital signs are more visible for road users which is useful in busier locations. We'll balance visibility and cost in our sign selection.
To make this project a success, we're working with NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and engaging with local schools. Together we'll:
- improve safety – lower speeds reduce the risk of accidents and injury severity near schools.
- encourage active travel – safer environments promote walking and cycling to school.
- respond to community aspirations – lower speeds near schools have strong community support.
- deliver on Wellington City Council goals – this work aligns with our strategic priorities around safe, accessible, people-friendly streets.
Work is set to begin in 2025, with signs being installed in phases around the schools until mid-2026.
Background
The Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024 came into effect on 30 October 2024. This rule requires all councils to implement safe variable speed limits outside school gates within 150 meters on either side.
The project aligns with our Long-Term Plan (LTP) 2024-2034, prioritising road safety, accessibility, and sustainable transport options.
Timeline and key milestones
- 30 October 2024 – Introduction of Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024.
- February 2025 – Initial engagement with schools.
- 14 July 2025 – Traffic Resolutions feedback period open.
- 28 July 2025 – Traffic Resolutions feedback period closes.
- 28 August 2025 – Koata Hātepe Regulatory Processes Committee makes a decision on Variable Speed Limit Traffic Resolution.
- November 2025 – Construction starts.
- June 2026 – Project completion.
Schools and community feedback
In February 2025 we collected feedback from schools, which was incorporated into the design. Further engagement with schools is planned for June 2025.
In July 2025, we'll ask for feedback via Traffic Resolutions about the location of the new speed limit signs and consider any issues raised.