Auckland Transport (AT) are proposing a speed limit change to 50km/h through Hatfields Beach.
As part of recent changes to the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024 Auckland Transport (AT) was required to revert the Hibiscus Coast Highway urban section between Orewa and the bridge at the north of Hatfields Beach to its pre-2020 speed limit of 70 km/h.
The Hibiscus and Bays Local Board supported the previous change to a 50k/h limit, and residents in the Hatfields Beach area expressed concerns regarding raising the limit back to 70km/h.
We have reviewed the area again recently and now invite the local community to share their views on our proposal to return this section of road to a 50km/h speed limit.
Michael Brown, Head of Road Safety Engineering, says “We're pleased to advise the local community that we've listened to their feedback, and with the support of the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, completed a review of the speed limit through Hatfields Beach.
"We can now share that the assessment supports a proposal to re-introduce a 50km/h limit. This would make it safer for residents and visitors to cross the busy road to the beach, especially during the coming summer holidays. We invite everyone to give feedback prior to the final decision being made.”
The changes we are proposing:
We are proposing to lower the speed limit on Hibiscus Coast Highway through Hatfields Beach to 50km/h. This aligns with urban speed limits, reflecting the amount of residential housing in the Hatfields Beach area and community concerns about safety near the beachfront parking area adjacent to the road.
The proposed reduction is expected to improve pedestrian safety and -
- lower the average speed on this stretch of road from 57 km/h to 51 km/h
- cause a 12-second travel time increase
- incur an implementation cost of $15,000.
If the community is supportive of this change, the new speed limit would be introduced as soon as possible during the busy summer holiday season.
The map below shows the extent of the proposed speed limit change:
Community consultation is open for six weeks until 28 November 2025 and all community feedback will be considered prior to a final decision being made.
Visit AK Have Your Say for more information.
