Zero tolerance on killing fields

The stretch of State Highway Two, between Bombay and Maramarua used to be referred to as the “killing fields” by resident locals and out-of-towners alike.

Only 15 kilometres long, the section of SH2 was fast becoming known for having New Zealand’s highest fatal crash rate.

The road is the main link between Auckland, Coromandel and the Tauranga /Bay of Plenty area with high traffic volumes. One in five vehicles is in the heavy motor vehicle class – most coming from the Port of Tauranga.

Sergeant Harry Watt, Highway Patrol Group Supervisor, Pokeno, says between 2001-2004, the road was the scene of 12 fatal crashes, accounting for 18 lives and countless injuries – some of which will remain with people for the rest of their lives.

In an effort to reduce the crash rate, Harry and his team have adopted and maintained a zero tolerance to the main contributor – speed.

“At the start we were getting speeds between 120-130 kph on a regular basis,” says Harry.

“However, with enforcement, we’re now seeing a visible reduction in the crash rate and, at this stage, we have now had a period of almost 14 months since the last fatal. The present average speed along this section of road is now 102 kph.”

Harry says the Highway Team works well together and with outside agencies Montgomery Watson (Transit’s Agents) for the Waikato; Environment Waikato; and the local Franklin District Council. The team maintains a close liaison with the Mangatangi and Maramarua Fire Services.