“Hauraki District Council were very supportive of the changes,” Corkill said, pointing out that the Refuse Transfer Station down Dean Crescent attracts significant local traffic having to exit what looks like an urban intersection on to a 100km/h highway.
While 57% of Karangahake submitters had concerns about the change of speed, he said many agreed a lower speed limit would help people navigate the tricky nature of the road, making it easier to access car parks and cross the road safely.
The speed limit changes have been certified by the Director of Land Transport.
This follows six weeks of public consultation with partners, stakeholders and the community from August to October this year.
The enforcement of the new speed limits will become legal once the new signage is in place, NZTA said.
The new limits affect the following stretches of road:
SH2 Karangahake, near Albert Street to west of Waitawheta Road (2.8km), will drop from 80km/h to 60km/h.
SH2 Waihī/Parry Palm Avenue, near the SH2/Martin Road/Baber Street intersection to near Orchard Road (950m), will drop from 70km/h to 60km/h.
SH2 Waihī/Parry Palm Avenue, near Orchard Road to near Dean Crescent (850m), will drop from 100km/ to 60km/h.
The signage will be installed as soon as possible, at which time the new speed limits will become enforceable.
More information on the permanent speed limits and consultation summaries can be found on the NZTA website.