One of the beaches in Auckland is set to implement a speed limit, with vehicles prohibited from exceeding 20 km/h, following a request from local residents.
Karioitahi Beach in Waikato, located southwest of Auckland and known for its black sand, will enforce the 20 km/h speed limit starting this Christmas season.
According to The New Zealand Herald on Saturday, September 21, 2024, the route along the beach previously had a speed limit of 60 km/h, as it was classified as a public road.
The local community of Ngāti te Ata reached out to Auckland Transport, requesting a reduction in the speed limit to improve safety and protect the environment.
Angela Fulljames, Chair of the Franklin Local Board, noted that local residents have often been disturbed by reckless driving behavior.
Karioitahi Beach, along with Muriwai Beach in West Auckland, are the only two beaches in Auckland designated for vehicle access. All other beaches in the region prohibit motor vehicles, except for launching or retrieving boats, or during emergencies.
At a recent meeting of Auckland Council’s Regional Transport Committee, council members approved a speed management plan known as “Katoa, Ka Ora” for the region.
Fulljames further explained that Auckland Transport and Auckland Council have worked together to respond to the request and are now seeking approval from the Land Transport Authority. Once approved, the new speed limit will be added to the national registry.
The 20 km/h speed limit will apply along the entirety of Karioitahi Beach, from the northern section to the Waikato boundary in the south.
It is expected that the new limit will be in place by early November 2024.
According to the council, vehicles are not permitted to drive in front of the parking areas, as these zones are the most popular for swimming.
Currently, safety signage for visitors is only available at the parking areas. However, Auckland Transport plans to install additional signs along the roads leading to the parking areas to inform drivers of the changes.