The existing 60kmh area from 51m east of Greig St to 170m west of Lakeside Dr will become a 50kmh zone, and the 100kmh area from 170m west of Lakeside Dr to 84m west of Tekapo Powerhouse Rd will reduce to an 80kmh zone.
NZ Transport Agency director regional relationships James Caygill said the new limits came after talking to iwi, the community, the council, local police, AA and local businesses about speed limits and ways to make the main road through the town safer.
"Overall, 39 submissions were received, all supportive of the proposed speed limit reductions and some wanting the speed to be reduced even more," Mr Caygill said.
"Thanks to everyone who provided us with feedback and ideas."
The aim of the new speed limits and other safety improvements is to help prevent people being killed or injured in crashes, as part of the agency’s Road to Zero campaign.
"No matter what causes a crash, speed is always a factor in the severity of crash outcomes," he said.
In the 10-year period between 2011 and 2020, there were 41 crashes on State Highway 8 in Tekapo. Five people were seriously injured as a result, and four people received minor injuries.
Other safety improvements being carried out in coming weeks in Tekapo to support the safer highway environment include:
• A new right turn bay into Lakeside Dr.
• Extending the existing right turn bay into Rapuwai Lane.
• A new pedestrian refuge (central crossing island) opposite Tekapo Adventures.
• A new right turn bay into the Challenge Service Station.
• Extending the existing right turn bay into Domain Rd.
• A new pedestrian refuge (central crossing island) and kerb buildout on the south side of the road opposite the school bus stop near Greig St.
• A new pedestrian refuge (central crossing island) and kerb buildouts on both sides of the road opposite the lookout and parking area (midway between Pioneer Dr and Hamilton Dr).
• A new right turn bay into Hamilton Dr.
