South Wairarapa District Council is rolling out the next phase of its district-wide speed changes over the next week in Martinborough.
The Council’s Speed Management Plan addresses areas with a higher potential safety risk. The first phase introduced changes around schools across the district in January this year. Variable speed limits were put in place before and after school bell times, supported by new signage, to better protect students and families during busy pick-up and drop-off periods.
The changes to be implemented this week are a reduction from 70km/h to 60km/h along Princess Street between New York Street and Nelsons Road, and a reduction from 100 km/h to 60 km/h on Ponatahi Road between Nelsons Road and John’s Way across Huangarua Bridge. These are regarded as peri-urban roads with potentially higher levels of walking and cycling activity. Further changes to peri-urban roads in Martinborough will take effect from 1 April.
Next steps
Speed changes to Greytown and Featherston peri-urban areas will be implemented later in April. Rural road speed reductions will take effect in May this year, with more information to be available to the community and on Council’s website when timeframes are available.
A full list of all changes to Martinborough’s peri-urban roads taking place over the next two weeks is available online at: South Wairarapa District Speed Changes 2026 – SWDC
Working together for safer roads
Council recognises that changes to speed limits can take time to adjust to and appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation. By taking a phased approach to implementing the changes, the Speed Management Plan aims to balance safety and accessibility with the way residents use South Wairarapa’s roads every day.
The Plan has been developed in line with the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024 and takes a risk-based approach to managing speeds on local roads. Its aim is to make travel safer for everyone who uses South Wairarapa’s roads for driving, cycling or walking.
More information about upcoming changes will be communicated ahead of implementation to ensure residents, visitors and road users are well informed.
Above: Martinborough speed change on Regent Street from 100km/h to 50km/h.