Drivers using Transmission Gully can now travel at up to 110km/h after NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi officially increased the speed limit this morning.
The state highway, which links Porirua with Kāpiti and Wellington, was designed and built to a high safety standard. Features include median barriers, two lanes in each direction and a mostly straight alignment, making it suitable for the higher speed limit, the agency said.
The new 110km/h limit applies to light vehicles only. Heavy vehicles and vehicles towing trailers must continue to travel at 90km/h.
The short Raumati Straights section, which connects Transmission Gully with the Kāpiti Expressway, will remain at 100km/h for now. NZ Transport Agency consulted last year on potentially increasing the speed limit there but said further analysis is under way.
The agency indicated that raising the speed limit on Raumati Straights would likely require significant investment in safety improvements to bring it up to the same standard as Transmission Gully. Any changes would be subject to future funding decisions.
Meanwhile, road rebuild works are continuing near Waitangirua on the northbound lanes. Drivers will see a reduced temporary speed limit in place.
NZ Transport Agency reminded motorists it is illegal to exceed temporary speed limits, which are in place to protect roadworkers and preserve the new road surface.
Lane closures are expected as part of the work. The northbound on-ramp at Waitangirua will also close later this week for up to five days, weather permitting.
In March, a small section of chipsealing work is scheduled to be completed at Waitangirua. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.