NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is lowering the speed limit on State Highway 3 just north of Hāwera, to improve safety for everyone using this stretch of road.

From 9 April, the speed limit will be reduced from 80km/h to 60km/h for approximately one kilometre of SH3, from north of Kerry Lane to north of Fantham Street

The new speed limit follows a speed limit review that considered community feedback alongside technical assessments, crash history and a cost benefit analysis. 

“This change reflects ongoing and future development along the corridor and aims to improve safety and accessibility,” says NZTA Director of Regional Relationships Linda Stewart.

“Hāwera’s northern growth over the past 20 years has transformed the area from rural to increasingly urban.

“The lower speed takes into consideration planned expansion of the local industrial area and business park.

“This part of SH3 is a key transport route connecting residential, industrial, and commercial areas. It serves a wide range of vehicles, including heavy trucks transporting agricultural and industrial goods, commuter cars, public transport, and service vehicles. The road already supports large volumes of freight and local travel, and provides access to facilities like the South Taranaki Business Park and Hāwera Racecourse.

“While the reduced speed limit will only add a few seconds to journeys, it will make a big difference to safety.”