Speed limits will soon be reduced in Karangahake and Waihī after a recent speed management review by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), a move aimed at improving safety in two busy and complex sections of State Highway 2.
The changes follow a six-week public consultation held between August and October, during which feedback showed communities were divided but highlighted strong safety concerns in both locations.
Consultation Results and Community Feedback
NZTA received 271 submissions for Karangahake and 217 for Waihī.
In Waihī, many submitters supported lowering speeds near the busy Dean Crescent intersection, citing high volumes of heavy vehicles and motorists towing trailers. The Hauraki District Council strongly supported the changes, noting that traffic exiting Dean Crescent — including vehicles visiting the Refuse Transfer Station — currently merges from what feels like an urban intersection onto a 100km/h highway, creating safety risks.
In Karangahake, while 57 per cent of submitters expressed concerns about lowering the speed limit, many others acknowledged that reduced speeds would benefit the area’s large number of visitors. Submitters noted that lower speeds would make it safer and easier for people to cross the road, enter and exit car parks, and navigate the narrow, winding stretch of highway, particularly during peak visitor periods when the main car park is full.
Safety Sign-Off and Implementation
The new speed limits have now been certified by the Director of Land Transport, completing the formal approval process. The changes will become legally enforceable once new signage is installed, with contractors expected to begin work imminently.
NZTA says the review reflects its broader focus on improving safety outcomes on high-risk roads while balancing community and stakeholder feedback.
Details of the Speed Limit Changes
SH2 Karangahake
- From near Albert Street to west of Waitawheta Road
- Length: 2.8km
- Current speed: 80km/h
- New speed: 60km/h
SH2 Waihī (Parry Palm Avenue)
- From SH2/Martin Road/Baber Street intersection to near Orchard Road
- Length: 950m
- Current speed: 70km/h
- New speed: 60km/h
SH2 Waihī
- From near Orchard Road to near Dean Crescent
- Length: 850m
- Current speed: 100km/h
- New speed: 60km/h
NZTA says further information, including consultation summaries and details on permanent speed limits, is available on its website.
Once signage is in place, motorists will be required to comply with the new limits, with enforcement applying from that point.
