The Government has announced the reversal of speed limit reductions on a large number of New Zealand roads, including many in the northern regions of the country.

The move will result in speed limits being increased on 38 sections of key routes, including parts of State Highway 1 in Northland, SH16 near Auckland and SH3 in Hamilton. Also on the list are changes to SH2 between Featherston and Masterton, and SH3 Whanganui.

Making the announcement in Wairarapa, where the speed limit increase will save drivers around three minutes on their journey, Transport Minister Chris Bishop said: “It all adds up - that is productivity and growth.”

Viastrada Certified Safe System Assessor and Level Crossing Safety Impact Assessor Glenn Koorey says the move goes against evidence that lower speeds make for safer roads, but there are some areas where putting the limit up can be justified.

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