New Variable Speed Limits (VSLs) to slow traffic outside Southland schools are set to take effect from the start of the new school year, and the safety enhancements are being welcomed.

Installation and preparation for these VSLs – which indicate on flashing electronic signs that the reduced speed limit is in force – is now underway. They will operate at peak times at 14 Southland Schools (see list of schools below).

This work by the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is part of the Government’s approach under the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024, which requires safer speeds outside schools by 1 July 2026.

Southland is one of several regions where VSLs are being installed ahead of the new school year. All eligible schools, including those on 100km/h roads, will have variable speed limits installed. 

At peak times, speed limits will drop to 30km/h or 60km/h, depending on the road and safety requirements.

“We know that these reduced speed limits, when in force at school drop-off and pick-up times, can make a real difference in keeping children and their families safe,” says NZTA Director of Regional Relationships, James Caygill.

An example below of existing Variable Speed Limit signage. Photo: Supplied

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Schools are welcoming these VSLs as an additional tool for the safety of their communities.

At Sacred Heart School (Waikiwi), the VSL introduction is being viewed as “creating a safer environment for all”.

“This important safety measure is being implemented to create a safer, calmer, and more predictable environment for our children, families, and all road users during the busiest times of our school day,” says principal Catherine Colvin.

“For our students, this means safer journeys to and from school. For our parents, caregivers, and whānau, it offers reassurance that the roads around the school are being managed with their children’s wellbeing at the forefront.

For our drivers and wider community, the VSL provides clear guidance that supports safer driving behaviours and shared responsibility for protecting our most vulnerable road users.”

Edendale Primary School has eagerly awaited the new VSL, and principal David McKenzie says he is excited to see it switched on.

“Now, at the start and end of the school day, the speed limit will be 30 km/h along the road past our school,” Mr McKenzie says.

“Drivers' heightened vigilance keeps all our children safe every school day.”

All VSL sites have been approved under the Land Transport Rule and will be legalised through the national speed limit register, making them subject to enforcement when they ‘go live’. 

The VSLs operate for up to 45 minutes before and after the school bell and can also be activated for short periods at other times when there are significant numbers of children around.

Find out more about safer speeds outside schools here.

 The full list of Southland schools with new VSLs is as follows:

• Ascot Community School
• Edendale Primary School
• Garston School
• Hauroko Valley Primary School
• Hedgehope School
• Lumsden School
• Makarewa School
• Mararoa School
• Sacred Heart School (Waikiwi)
• St John's Girls' School (Invercargill)
• St Patrick's School (Nightcaps)
• St Thomas's School (Winton)
• Te Anau School
• Winton School

A thumbs up below from Edendale Primary School students for the new Variable Speed Limits outside the school. Photo: Supplied

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Plan for a safe, enjoyable journey. Keep up to date with:

• Traffic updates: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz
• Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)