Mutton said this is the first time safety improvements have been developed with iwi and hapū partners and used outside of a marae across the motu.
“We’re committed to providing safer roading environments around marae, and we’re working closely with other iwi and hapū partners to develop improvements to lower speed limits and keep our communities safe,” he said.
“We’ve partnered with mana whenua to ensure that Māori cultural values and perspectives are recognised and integrated into the project. This partnership will continue throughout the project’s development and delivery.”
Waka Kotahi developed a Mana-Enhancing Agreement with Kareponia Marae to support trustees with the operation of the 30km/h variable speed limit. The agreement places the principle of mana at the centre of the relationship and enables both organisations to work in partnership to enhance the safety of the community, Mutton said.
The new speed limits came into effect from Monday.