Police focus is on ensuring people are driving safely and to the conditions.
Police enforce speed limits set by central and local government. We use a range of tools including radar and laser speed detection devices, high visibility patrols and traffic stops. Complementing Police enforcement, the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) uses safety cameras to enforce speed limits.
Police decisions about speed enforcement are based on evidence. You might feel safe driving a few kilometres over the limit but extensive research from New Zealand and overseas shows a small increase in speed raises the crash risk for all road users.
Driving faster than the speed limit is illegal. However, driving safely means driving to the conditions.
‘Conditions’ doesn’t just mean the weather – it includes the road you’re on, the roadside around you, traffic conditions, vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists, your vehicle and load.
Enforcement when overtaking
Police understand the frustration caused by slower drivers who speed up when entering passing lanes, but this does not create an excuse or mandate for exceeding the posted speed limit and patience is required.
While Police may take a more pragmatic approach when enforcing speed on passing lanes, the safety risks associated with speeding outweigh a few seconds saved from passing an irritating vehicle.
More information
- Infringement notices and fees
- Speeds and speed signs | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
- Penalties for speeding | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi