Green cycle boxes have been added in front of traffic barriers at some signal-controlled intersections, to make cyclists more visible and ensure they have a clear path ahead of turning or straight-through motorists.
Signal phases at certain intersections have also been changed to reduce conflict between users, including cyclists and pedestrians.
DCC senior traffic engineer Ron Minnema said the green "advanced stop boxes" were also used by the New Zealand Transport Agency at state highway intersections.
They were designed to give cyclists a designated waiting area at busy intersections, in full view of motorists, and allow cyclists to travel through intersections without the risk of being cut-off by turning traffic.
"They are the minimum standard put in place when we don't have cycle lanes," he said.
Motorists should idle behind stop boxes when waiting at intersections, where sensors connected to signals were placed, Mr Minnema said.
