The speed limit on 2 sections of State Highway 26A (SH26A) – formerly State Highway 26 and also known as Morrinsville Road – will be reduced this week following a formal speed limit review and public consultation.

In late 2025, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) consulted on proposed speed limit changes on SH26A. The consultation covered 2 sections of road: an urban section from where the speed limit currently changes from 50km/h to 80km/h (northeast of Morris Road) to near Silverdale Road, and a peri-urban section – from near Silverdale Road to near the Ruakura Road roundabout. 

NZTA Director Regional Relationships for the Waikato and Bay of Plenty, Andrew Corkill says as a result of the review and feedback received, the speed limit on the urban section of SH26A will be lowered from 80km/h to 50km/h and from 80km/h to 60km/h on part of the peri-urban section.   

Mr Corkill says there was particularly strong community support for reducing speeds across the 135 submissions related to the urban section.  

“Sixty‑one percent supported lowering the speed limit, with submitters highlighting improved safety for children, schools, cyclists and pedestrians.”  

This section is currently being upgraded by Hamilton City Council, including the construction of a new peanut shaped roundabout at the intersections of SH26A with Silverdale Road and Matangi Road, and a new shared path on the northern side of the road.   

“The new speed limit reflects the changing road environment, with the roundabout designed for a 50km/h urban setting,” says Mr Corkill. 

The speed limit on the peri-urban section will be lowered from 80km/h to 60km/h for a length of 1.27km.  

The remainder of SH26A heading towards Morrinsville and the Ruakura Road roundabout, will remain 80km/h at this time.