Safer Speeds proposed as Waikirikiri Selwyn Grows
Selwyn District Council media release: 11th May 2026
The Waikirikiri Selwyn community is being invited to have its say on proposed changes to speed limits on selected roads in response to growth, safety and requests from our community.
The Council is proposing to change the speed limits at 41 locations across the district with consultation opening today.
As Waikirikiri Selwyn grows, roads that were once rural now connect new homes, schools, and commercial areas. Some roads have higher use or the way the road is used has changed. Some communities have also requested changes in their area.
The consultation follows Road Safety Week last week, which remembered the 261 people who died or were seriously injured in crashes on roads throughout the greater Canterbury region last year.
Updating speed limits in the right places helps keep everyone safer, Executive Director Infrastructure and Property Tim Mason says.
“This proposal is about making sure we are keeping safe speeds up to date as road use changes and responding to requests from our community. They aim to help keep people safe, keep limits consistent between similar roads in similar areas and support future changes.”
Each proposed speed change is backed by data, weighing up the likely safety benefits, impact on travel times, and costs to implement.
“Sensible speed limits that reflect the way the roads are used help keep traffic flowing and are one of the most effective tools we have to reduce harm,” Mr Mason says.
The proposed changes are required to be consulted on under the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024, to improve safety, support economic activity, and keep people and goods moving efficiently.
Feedback from the community will help shape the final proposal, which will then be considered for adoption by the Council and submitted to NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi for final approval.
The consultation will run for six weeks and is open until 5pm Monday 22nd June 2026.
Learn more about the Safer Speeds for Selwyn consultation, inlcuding how to make a submission.