110km/h speed limit for Pūhoi to Warkworth Motorway

A new 110km/h speed limit will come into effect on the Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway from tomorrow morning, Transport Minister Chris Bishop has confirmed.

The increased limit applies to the stretch of State Highway 1 between 2.5km north of the Johnstones Hill Tunnels and just south of the Warkworth roundabout.

“With over 20,000 vehicles using this motorway daily, the higher speed will help ensure people and freight move quickly and safely,” said Bishop. “Transport is a critical enabler of economic growth and productivity, and this new speed limit is a step toward delivering on that potential.”

The change follows a public consultation led by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) in late 2024, which sought feedback on the proposed increase. The agency received 7,911 submissions from across Auckland and Northland, with overwhelming support—94% of respondents backed the change, and 91% were strongly in favour.

Bishop says the motorway’s safety credentials played a key role in enabling the speed limit increase. “The Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway has been built to the highest modern safety standards,” he said. “It features two lanes in each direction, flexible median barriers, and a wide, mostly straight alignment. Since its opening in 2023, there have been no fatalities recorded.”

Technical assessments by NZTA confirmed the motorway section met all the criteria for a 110km/h designation, a speed limit currently reserved for select high-quality roads in New Zealand.

Police enforcement will be in line with other 110km/h zones, and drivers are reminded to always adjust their speed to conditions and stay alert to safety basics, such as avoiding distractions and ensuring all occupants are wearing seatbelts.

The speed through the Johnstones Hill Tunnels, however, will remain at 80km/h. NZTA cited the unique risk profile of the enclosed tunnel environment and confirmed there are no plans to alter the limit within this section.

A short 2.5km stretch north of the tunnels will retain a 100km/h limit due to road design constraints. This includes viaducts where merging and diverging traffic, tight sightlines, and narrow off-ramps do not meet safety standards for a higher speed.

Bishop says the motorway’s upgrade has already improved safety and accessibility between Auckland and Northland, making it easier for road users, freight, and tourists alike. “This road is a vital link and this change will make it even more effective in serving the region.”

The new speed limit will be officially in force from Tuesday, 1 July 2025.