Slower speeds coming to Mt Vic school zones

Slower speeds coming to Mt Vic school zones

Mt Vic drivers will need to slow down when new speed limits are introduced next year.  Emily Callam reports.

New variable 30 kilometre per hour speed limits are to be installed around Clyde Quay School and Wellington East Girls’ College in Mt Victoria.

The changes are being introduced to schools around Wellington; the change is required under national regulation, which mandates that all councils must implement safe school speed limits by 1 July 2026. 

The reduced limits will apply during school travel times on roads within 150 metres of school gates.  The 30 km/h limit will apply during the periods 8.20am – 9.10am and 2.40pm – 3.40pm, school days only.
The new signs will be a mix of static and digital, with the council prioritising digital signs in busier areas for greater visibility, while static signs will help balance cost and coverage.

In Mt Victoria, the changes will affect parts of Elizabeth Street, Brougham Street, Levy Street, Queen Street, Moncrieff Street, Austin Street, Ellis Street and Paterson Street. In total, 29 signs are being installed.

Clyde Quay School principal Cameron Ross informed students, parents and caregivers about the programme in the school newsletter.

“This change will apply within 150 metres of the school gates, helping to create a safer environment for our whānau as they arrive and leave each day.”

The Wellington City Council is delivering the project in partnership with NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, with input from local schools.

Installation is scheduled to begin in November 2025, and the project is expected to be complete by June 2026.

According to the council, the programme will reduce crash risk and injury severity, encourage active travel, such as walking and cycling, respond to community support for lower speeds near schools, and support people-friendly, accessible streets.

Feedback on the proposals closed at the end of July, and a final decision is being made in August at the council’s Koata Hātepe Regulatory Processes Committee.

The initiative follows changes introduced under the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024, which requires all councils to implement variable speed limits near schools nationwide.

More information.