Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has introduced the New Zealand Guide to Temporary Traffic Management (NZGTTM), which replaces the current Code of Practice for Temporary Traffic Management (CoPTTM).

South Wairarapa District Council (SWDC) and Carterton District Council (CDC) are preparing to transition all road corridor works to NZGTTM.

Key dates

• From 1 November 2025 – the councils will begin accepting Corridor Access Requests (CARs) with Traffic Management Plans (TMPs) prepared under NZGTTM.
• From 1 July 2026 – All CAR applications must be submitted under NZGTTM. CoPTTM-based TMPs will no longer be accepted after this date.

What this means

This transition is a significant step towards a risk-based approach that better aligns with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA).

• Contractors will have greater flexibility and responsibility for developing and implementing Traffic Management Plans (TMPs).
• Councils will continue to coordinate road closures, temporary speed limits and access to the road corridor.
• Early adoption is strongly encouraged to ensure a smooth transition for all parties.

The three Cs and RCA role

A key element of the HSWA is the requirement for all parties involved in a work activity to consult, communicate and coordinate (the three Cs).

• Contractors must share draft TMPs with the RCA, subcontractors and any other affected parties for review and feedback.
• The RCA will assess network impacts and holds the right to veto or request alternative plans if proposed works are deemed unsuitable.
• RCAs still hold the legislated responsibilities to approve road closures, temporary speed limits and to grant access to the road corridor, ensuring works are coordinated with other activities on the network.
• RCAs also have a responsibility to protect public assets. All reinstatement works (including road surfaces, footpaths, and berms) are required to meet council standards. Works not meeting these standards will need to be corrected at the contractor’s cost.

Qualifications and competency

• Existing TTM warrants/cards will be recognised until their expiry.
• NZGTTM introduces a competency-based system. PCBUs must ensure that all staff have the necessary skills and training.
• You may be asked to provide evidence of competency when lodging a CAR or during an audit.

Support and guidance

The following links provide useful information and templates to support preparation for the NZGTTM transition:

• NZGTTM – The Guide (Waka Kotahi)
• TTM Industry Steering Group (ISG)
• Worksafe – Working near live traffic
• Waka Kotahi TTM Library – Forms and templates

Next steps

• Please begin reviewing how your organisation will adapt to NZGTTM.
• Engage with your teams, subcontractors and TTM providers early.
• Utilise the templates and guidance available in the links above as part of your preparation.

We will continue to update our council website with local processes, fees and guidance to support you through this change.

Thank you for working with us on this important transition. Together we can ensure safer, more effective traffic management across the Wairarapa.