Use of portable traffic signal systems on the New Zealand State highway network is governed by the New Zealand Transport Agency’s Code of Practice for Temporary Traffic Management (COPTTM) and systems used must be certified compliant to AS 4191 Portable traffic signal systems or Approved by the NZ Transport Agency as compliant to the requirements of this document. 

This CoPTTM technical note details the specifications that portable traffic signals must comply with to be certified compliant to AS 4191.

It also details pathways for gaining approval.

What has changed

An addition has been made to the specification in this updated version (3): 

Any system that uses radio communications will need to comply with the appropriate New Zealand Regulations. 

Publication details

Author: NZ Transport Agency – CoPTTM (Safety) team
Published: November 2015
Version: 3
Found at:http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/code-temp-traffic-management/copttm.html#technical 

Further information

Contact the Senior Traffic and Safety Engineer (CoPTTM) of the Safety team at stuart.fraser@nzta.govt.nz or phone 04 894 6355.

Kevin Reid

The NZ Transport Agency is currently participating in the preparation of an industry ground investigation specification which may be adopted in the future for NZ Transport Agency projects. 

In the interim, the Agency is aware of a number of practices that may be affecting the quality of testing data and therefore geotechnical design(s) and thereby structure designs. This TAN relates to those practices and presents the Transport Agency’s interim requirements pending the new ground investigation specification.

Standard penetration testing (SPT)

It is noted that variation in equipment being used to conduct SPT tests is resulting in varying hammer efficiencies. Some ground investigation suppliers do not appear to either determine hammer efficiency or report it. Such variation can have a considerable effect on calculated N60 values. SPT hammer efficiency testing must be undertaken and conducted in accordance with ASTM D4633-10 and reported with the associated SPT test results. 

An increasing practice of undertaking SPTs in boreholes affected by base heave without any measures to mitigate or control it (for example water, drilling fluids or similar within the hole to counter effects) has been observed. It is expected that drilling contractors will have, within their QA and QC procedures, appropriate identification of, and mitigation measures for, such situations that shall be adopted by site crews during the physical works.

NZ Transport Agency consultants/suppliers procuring and/or supervising ground investigations on behalf of the Transport Agency shall ensure hammer efficiency testing is being undertaken and reported. Hammer efficiencies shall be reported within factual reports, clearly identifying which tests were conducted by which hammer. Similarly, confirmation of drilling procedure to mitigate base heave shall be confirmed.

Cone penetrometer testing (CPT)

It has become apparent that some CPT operators do not adequately check drift or calibration prior to commencement of testing.

NZ Transport Agency consultants/suppliers procuring and/or supervising ground investigations on behalf of the Transport Agency shall ensure compliance and check that cones are appropriately calibrated and in acceptable condition. Calibration certificates for cones used shall be included in factual reports.

Logging of exploratory holes

Exploratory holes includes all ground penetrations and excavations undertaken to assess ground conditions, including, but not limited to, hand augers, test pits, boreholes, window sampling and pavements pits.

The following requirements shall be followed unless expressly agreed otherwise with the Transport
Agency:

• All logging is to be undertaken in accordance with the current version of the New Zealand Geotechnical Society Guidelines Field description of soil and rock by suitably qualified person;
• For machine drilled boreholes, the method of drilling shall be clearly noted including sonic drilling, which shall be annotated as such;
• Hand shear vanes shall be conducted in accordance with the current version of the New Zealand Geotechnical Society Guidelines for hand shear vane testing;
• With the exception of pavement pits, all logs shall be provided electronically (separately from any required factual reporting) in AGS4(NZ) format and ‘up-load’ ready for the NZ National Geotechnical Database. To avoid any potential ‘commercial-in-confidence’ infringement, these shall be provided (separately from any reporting) to the Transport Agency’s Principal Geotechnical Engineer (through the Transport Agency’s Project Manager) who will arrange uploading.

Core imagery

Core images (photographs) have been noted to be of declining clarity and therefore value due to lack of compliance with the requirements of the NZ Transport Agency’s Contract for Professional Services contained within SM030 (State highway professional services contract proforma manual).

The Transport Agency reminds all parties that there are specific requirements within SM030. Core images should be taken before cutting/breaking/handling that forms any part of the logging process. Clearly where core deconstruction reveals aspects of interest, further imagery would be valuable and anticipated.

NZ Transport Agency consultants/suppliers procuring and/or supervising ground investigations on behalf of the Transport Agency are reminded, and shall ensure that images are clear and satisfy the recommendations of SM030.

Investigation testing procedures

The Transport Agency reminds all parties that where specific New Zealand and other standards are required to be adopted, it is essential that such standards are followed unless specifically agreed with the Agency and clearly defined within the factual reporting. Subsequent users of factual information rely upon testing being conducted in accordance with such standards.

Application

Given that the above items are essentially existing requirements which should currently be being followed, no specific date of application applies. However, the noted reporting requirement (for SPT and CPT testing) shall take effect from 1 January 2016. As these relate to QA practices and procedures no additional costs to the Transport Agency are anticipated for such reporting.

Compliance checking

From 1 January 2016 those parties engaged to supervise and to review ground investigation reports for and on behalf of the Transport Agency shall ensure appropriate reporting is undertaken.

Further information

Contact Stuart Finlan of the Highways and Network Operations’ Structures team at stuart.finlan@nzta.govt.nz.

Kevin Reid

Further to TAN #15-08: Road Safety Hardware Update-Temporary Concrete Barrier TCB-1, this Technical Advice Note clarifies issues related to the utilisation of concrete barriers to temporarily detain rockfall/slope debris. 

Concrete barriers have been widely used to detain rockfall and slope debris as a temporary measure whilst permanent solutions are sought. The concrete barriers used take a number of forms (New Jersey Barrier/Transit F-shape concrete barrier and other) and generally have been adopted for detention due to their no longer being compliant as temporary concrete road safety barriers. 

A number of operational and safety related issues have been experienced using such barriers for detention. Focusing on the Transport Agency’s adoption of Safe System thinking and focus on Zero Harm, the requirements for concrete barriers to temporarily detain rockfall/slope debris are detailed here. 

Requirements for concrete barriers used to temporarily detain rockfall/slope debris

Concrete barriers used to temporarily detain rockfall/slope debris shall comply with the following requirements:

• Reinforced to prevent spalling of concrete on the roadside face of the barrier following impact by rockfall/debris on the detention face;
• Appropriately faced on the traffic side to comply with concrete barrier requirements;
• Interconnected by an approved method to ensure individual barriers do not move when impacted by rockfall/slope debris or errant to traffic to create a road user hazard. It is expected that all new barriers will conform to the connection requirements of TAN#15-08. Existing barriers may be retrofitted with an acceptable linking system subject to RCA approval;
• Be in intimate contact with the ground along its entire base. No blocking or chocking of barriers is permitted;
• Located such that surface water drainage channels are not, as far as reasonably practicable, adversely blocked and that surface water is not deflected by the barrier on to the road or causes scour erosion;
• Located sufficiently behind any edge line to satisfy safety requirements as far as reasonably practicable as agreed with the RCA;
• Concrete barriers supporting fencing/netting or any other structure intended to control or limit rockfall/debris impact on to the highway, will require design to demonstrate that the concrete barrier does not adversely overturn under the impact loading due to the assessed 85th percentile rock/debris size. Such structures may be restrained to redress potential rotation;
• The requirements of CoPTTM.

Where compliance cannot be achieved a departure is required.

Application

This change shall take effect for new installations from 1 July 2016.

Existing temporary barriers shall be replaced as and when required through degradation, damage or impact.

All non-reinforced barriers shall be replaced no later than 1 July 2016, or as soon as reasonably practicable thereafter as agreed with the RCA.

Any concrete barriers/concrete barriers with associated fencing, intended as a permanent solution, will require detailed design and approval.

Improved inventory control

To facilitate inventory control, from 1 July 2016 all units shall be identifiable and a database of their date of manufacture and source, amount and location of reinforcing, condition, date of placement in current location and inspection dates shall be maintained.

Compliance checking

After 1 July 2016, the use of non-reinforced concrete barriers used to temporarily detain rockfall/slope debris will be considered non-compliant practice.

Further information

Contact Stuart Finlan of the Highways and Network Operations’ Structures team at stuart.finlan@nzta.govt.nz.

Kevin Reid

Highways and Network Operations have launched the new State highway network outcomes contract management manual (SM034).

The State highway network outcomes contract management manual (NOCMM) (SM034) is a newly published manual that has been developed to provide guidance and assistance to Transport Agency staff involved with Network Outcomes Contracts (NOC).

The manual covers the contract cycle from procurement, contract establishment, contract management, and the maintenance, operations and renewal delivery annual cycle, through to the final year and contract close-out. It contains checklists, processes, forms and examples and guidelines for elements of the contract.

The SM032 NOC contract document sets the contractual arrangement and specifications. The NOCMM sits alongside this to further explain processes in the NOC and who is responsible for them, with a focus on Transport Agency contract management processes.

Publication details

Author: NZ Transport Agency – Procurement team
Published: November 2015
Version: 1
Also known as: SM034
Reference: ISBN 978-0-478-44583-1 (online)
Found at: http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/state-highway-network-outcomes-contract-management-manual

Further information

Contact the Highways and Network Operations manual owner at sm034@nzta.govt.nz.

Chris Young

Traffic data booklets and state highway traffic volumes

1. 2 011 to 2015 - 85 pages2011 to 2015 - 85 pages
2. 2011 to 2015: Appendix A - 116 pages2011 to 2015: Appendix A - 116 pages
3. 2010 to 2014 — 97 pages, 8.3 MB
4. 2010 to 2014: Appendix A — 118 pages, 7 MB
5. 2009 to 2013 — 90 pages, 7.8 MB
6. 2009 to 2013: Appendix A — 121 pages, 3 MB
7. 2008 to 2012 — 69 pages, 8.8 MB
8. 2008 to 2012: Appendix A — 120 pages, 3.4 MB
9. 2007 to 2011 — 65 pages, 7 MB
10. 2007 to 2011: Appendix A — 56 pages, 1.6 MB
11. 2006 to 2010 — 66 pages, 7.6 MB
12. 2006 to 2010: Appendix A — 56 pages, 2.7 MB
13. 2005 to 2009 — 103 pages, 1.3 MB
14. 2004 to 2008 — 97 pages, 1.8 MB
15. 2003 to 2007 — 47 pages, 452 KB
16. 2002 to 2006 — 49 pages, 803 KB
17. 2001 to 2005 — 25 pages, 212 KB
18. 2000 to 2004 — 24 pages, 392 KB
19. 2003 — 28 pages, 263 KB
20. 2002 — 27 pages, 193 KB
21. 2001 — 27 pages, 187 KB
22. 2000 — 28 pages, 371 KB
23. 1999 — 24 pages, 374 KB
24. 1998 — 23 pages, 365 KB
25. 1997 — 27 pages, 370 KB
26. 1996 — 35 pages, 560 KB
27. 1995 — 26 pages, 266 KB
28. 1994 — 22 pages, 255 KB
29. 1993 — 19 pages, 250 KB
30. 1992 — 18 pages, 364 KB
31. 1991 — 18 pages, 362 KB
32. 1990 — 18 pages, 367 KB
33. 1989 — 18 pages, 356 KB
34. 1988 — 19 pages, 521 KB
35. 1986 — 14 pages, 553 KB
36. 1975 to 1984 — 22 pages, 1.5 MB

State highway volumes by region

1. 2010-2014 AADT by region — 14 pages, 256 KB
2. 2009-2013 AADT by region — 14 pages, 252 KB
3. 2008-2012 AADT by region — 14 pages, 606 KB
4. 2007-2011 AADT by region — 14 pages, 483 KB
5. 2006-2010 AADT by region — 14 pages, 450 KB

Highways and Network Operations have launched the new OPermit bridge structural data guide.

The OPermit bridge structural data guide is a new document.

It provides guidance for:

• the development of structural data for bridges and major culverts in the OPermit overweight permit checking system
• the engineering principles underpinning the structural analysis methods of OPermit
• the interpretation of OPermit output.

The OPermit bridge structural data guide is intended for personnel providing bridge technical support to Permit Issuing Officers (PIOs) and for personnel who create and maintain OPermit structural data.

Publication details

Author: NZ Transport Agency
Published: April 2016
Version: 1
Reference: ISBN 978-0-478-44534-3
Found at:http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/opermit-bridge-structural-data-guide/

Further information

Contact the Highways and Network Operations Structures team at bridgemanual@nzta.govt.nz.

Kevin Reid

50MAX is a new generation of truck that allows for safe and more efficient transport of freight goods.

A new generation of truck

50MAX vehicle combinations have one more axle than conventional 44-tonne vehicles combinations, meaning the overall truck load is spread further and there is no additional wear on roads per tonne of freight. This means 50MAX gives operators an option to carry increased payloads on parts of the network that, while economically important to New Zealand, carry lower volumes of freight.

The increased payloads of 50MAX can lead to economic benefits for producers, customers and our communities. Allowing bigger trucks on our roads reduces the number of truck trips needed to move the same amount of freight.

Find out more information about 50MAX trucks

• Information for operators and manufacturers
• Information for road controlling authorities
• Read the Vehicle dimension and mass permitting manual

50MAX newsletters

Read issues of 50MAX updates , our newsletter for 50MAX permit holders: 

• April 2016
• March 2016
• February 2016
• January 2016
• December 2015
• November 2015
• October 2015
• August 2015
• July 2015
• June 2015
• May 2015
• March 2015
• February 2015
• December 2014
• November 2014
• October 2014
• September 2014
• August 2014
• July 2014

If you are a 50MAX permit holder and not receiving this newsletter, please contactinfo50MAX@nzta.govt.nz  or call us on 0800 699 000.

50MAX news

State Highway 1  from North Cape to Bluff on 50MAX

A significant breakthrough has been achieved for freight efficiency with the opening of the Whirokino Trestle Bridge on State Highway 1 in Horowhenua to 50MAX.

Transport Agency Freight Director Harry Wilson says the restriction on the bridge south of Foxton was lifted after an extensive engineering assessment. ‘This is excellent news for 50MAX operators and local communities who stand to reap the benefits,’ says Mr Wilson. He says the 1100-metre reinforced concrete bridge which runs across the Manawatu flood plain was the last 50MAX restricted bridge along State Highway 1, meaning the whole length of the country from North Cape to the Bluff is now 50MAX compatible.

Having the Whirokino Trestle freed up for 50MAX traffic is going to be a significant time saver for 50MAX operators and provide major efficiency gains as it will remove the need to divert these trucks via Shannon and Palmerston North. Mr Wilson says the lifting of the restriction applies only to 50MAX, other high productivity motor vehicles (HPMVs) will need to continue to use the route specified on their permits.

Meanwhile, the number of 50MAX permits continues to rise. As at 1 October 2014, a total of 1843 permits were issued – less than a year after the permits were introduced. Mr Wilson says 50MAX trucks have the same high safety standards that are required of other HPMVs (including increased resistance to roll over and the inclusion of electronic braking systems), meaning they are trucks that are not only more efficient, but also safer.

He welcomed the fact that many operators are investing in even more safety measures, such as speed limiting, GPS monitoring, weight load cells and electronic stability control meaning they are trucks that are not only more efficient, but also safer. 

Consolidated Rule

1. Consolidation (PDF) — 57 pages

2. Preface to consolidation - 7 pagesPreface to consolidation (PDF) — 5 pages, 108 KB

3. Incorporated by reference

Principal Rule

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule 2002

2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule 2002 (PDF) — 126 pages, 2.1 MB

Amendments

2016

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2016
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2016 (PDF) — 13 pages, 212KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2016 Questions & Answers

2015

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2015
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2015 (PDF) — 17 pages, 272KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2015 Questions & Answers

2014

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2014
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2014 (PDF) — 19 pages, 266 KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2014 Questions & Answers

2013

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2013
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2013 (PDF) — 17 pages, 815 KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2013 Questions & Answers
4. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment (No. 2) 2013 — 9 pages, 155 KB
5. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment (No. 2) 2013
6. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment (No. 2) 2013 Questions & Answers

2012

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2012
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2012 (PDF) — 12 pages, 157 KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2012 Questions & Answers

2011

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2011
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2011 (PDF) — 13 pages, 180 KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2011 Questions & Answers

2010

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2010
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2010 (PDF) — 31 pages, 162 KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2010 Questions & Answers

2009

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2009
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2009 (PDF) — 11 pages, 109 KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2009 Questions & Answers

2007/2008

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment (No. 2) 2007
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2007
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2007 (PDF) — 25 pages, 228 KB
4. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment (No. 2) 2007 (PDF) — 12 pages, 121 KB
5. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2007/2008 Questions & Answers

2005

1. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2005
2. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2005 ( PDF) — 15 pages, 70 KB
3. Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2005 Questions & Answers

Many roads north and south of Christchurch will be busy and ANZAC Day services on Monday may create the need for short-term detours in many places.

In Canterbury and on the West Coast, roads should not be as busy as Easter, based on previous years’ traffic volumes, says the Transport Agency’s Journey Manager Lee Wright.

"There will be traffic lights on the Bealey Bridge, State Highway 73, and at Mingha Bluff at the entrance to Arthur’s Pass, a longer term road realignment. People should expect short delays.”

The Transport Agency encourages people to check tyres, indicators, wind-wipers and lights before they load up the car.

“Planning your journey and being a considerate driver will help everyone to get to their destination safely to enjoy the long weekend. Don’t underestimate the importance of taking regular breaks or sharing the driving where possible,” said Ms Wright.

The Transport Agency is stopping all maintenance work in Canterbury and the West Coast over the ANZAC weekend, as the summer work season comes to an end. Drivers are asked to observe speed restrictions on the Christchurch highway projects - Russley Road to Ryans Road, the Groynes to Sawyers Arms Road, and Dyers Road in Bexley.

• Look up the traffic congestion HotSpots showing locations and times of peak congestion for ANZAC Weekend here.
• Find an ANZAC Day service here.
• For the latest on highway conditions, go to www.highwayinfo.govt.nz, phone the Transport Agency’s 0800 4 HIGHWAYS info line or check the Facebook pages. (www.facebook.com/nztasouthisland)
• Canterbury/ West Coast Transport Agency Twitter page @NZTACWC

We’re committed to a collaborative approach to transport planning, funding and development. It’s an approach that delivers integrated transport solutions that best meet the needs of New Zealanders. To achieve these results, we seek open and honest consultation across a range of activities with all our stakeholders, including road users, business, local government, communities and iwi.

• See what we’re currently consulting on
• See what we’ve recently consulted on

The activities we consult on

Projects, policies and programmes

We undertake consultation for programmes, policies and projects according to specific scope, process and consultation principles set out by the Land Transport Management Act 2003.

Read the Land Transport Management Act 2003

Land transport rules

We undertake consultation on behalf of the Minister of Transport for the making of land transport rules. The Minister of Transport has a statutory responsibility under the Land Transport Act 1998 to notify the intention to make the rule and to consult with interested groups on the proposed rule.

Read the Land Transport Act 1998

We go beyond the minimum statutory requirements by maintaining a database of interested groups and individuals and undertaking extensive consultation on each rule. Submissions received on draft rules are summarised and analysed and the rule redrafted to take into account the submissions received. If necessary, we undertake further consultation with key groups before submitting a proposed rule to the government.

Policy – planning and management of land transport activities

We consult and communicate with relevant organisations and individuals whenever we substantively develop, enhance or review policy around the planning and management of land transport activities. These are activities that can be funded from the national land transport fund. Appendix 3 of the Planning, programming and funding manual details this consultation and communication process.

What we’re currently consulting on

Recent consultations (now closed)

• Engagement on the development of a SuperGold Bulk Funding Allocation Methodology
  On 8 June 2015, Government agreed that from 1 July 2016 the funding model for the SuperGold scheme will change from a demand driven fare reimbursement model to a capped bulk funding model.

  The Transport Agency has been tasked with developing, in collaboration with regional councils, a principles-based approach to the annual allocation of bulk funding to regional councils in time for the 2016/17 financial year. 

  The Ministry of Transport will carry out a review of the effectiveness of the bulk funding model in 2018/19.

  The Transport Agency is seeking feedback from regional councils and other affected stakeholders on the preferred option which is discussed in the engagement document. The engagement document also summarises the other options that were explored in the development of the preferred option.
  
  The engagement period closed on  29 February 2016 . Please send feedback to  sarah.downs@nzta.govt.nz .

• Proposed changes to Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule 2002 (VDAM Rule)
  The Government is consulting on proposed changes to the Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Rule 2002 (VDAM Rule) which regulates the size and weight of vehicles able to travel on New Zealand roads.
  
  Submissions were open until  17 February 2016 .  The discussion document and submission form are available online at  www.transport.govt.nz/vdam .
  
  
• Guide to assessing social impacts for state highway projects
  The Transport Agency has released this draft  Guide to assessing social impacts for state highway projects  for public consultation. This guide sets out the requirements for assessment that meets the Transport Agency’s commitment to social responsibility and the requirements of statutory approval processes under the Resource Management Act. 
  
  Please send feedback to  environment@nzta.govt.nz . The feedback period close don  Monday 29 January 2016 , after which the final document will be prepared and released.
• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment (2016)
  The Transport Agency has released this proposed amendment Rule, on behalf of the Minister of Transport, for public consultation. Consultation closed on  Monday 21 December 2015.
  
  The aim of this proposed amendment Rule is to allow road controlling authorities to issue permits for higher axle loading on all buses. A previous amendment to this rule (which came into effect on 1 October 2015) introduced permits for higher axle masses, but only for high-capacity buses (double-deckers) used on urban public transport routes.
• New Zealand Transport Agency State Highway Stormwater Specification
  The Environment and Urban Design team has drafted this specification, together with input from a group of internal and external people with expertise in stormwater management on the state highways.
  
  Please send feedback to  environment@nzta.govt.nz . The feedback period closed on  Friday 18 December 2015 , after which the final document will be prepared and released.
• Specification for Traffic signals
  The Signal New Zealand User Group (SNUG) and The Transport Agency has developed guidelines to assist traffic signal asset owners, design consultants and suppliers capture the maximum benefits from the newer technologies available, and to provide a best practice guideline.
  
  Feedback may be directed to: P43Feedback@nzta.govt.nz . The feedback period closed on Monday 26 October 2015.
• Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2015
  The NZ Transport Agency is consulting, on behalf of the Minister of Transport (the Minister), on proposed changes to Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2015 ("the Rule").
  
  Consultation on the proposed changes is being carried out to ensure that legislation is sound and robust and that the Rules development process takes account of the views of, and the impact on, people affected by proposed Rule changes.
  
  The issues that are raised during consultation will be analysed and taken into account in preparing the proposed changes for the Minister of Transport's consideration. Submissions closed Friday, 10 July 2015
• Draft Guide to the management of reverse sensitivity effects on the state highway network
  The Transport Agency released a draft Guide to the management of reverse sensitivity effects on the state highway network for public consultation. This guide describes how we manage reverse sensitivity effects, working together with territorial authorities and landowners/developers. Submissions closed on Friday 1 May 2015.

• State Highway 3, Awakino Gorge to Mt Messenger corridor
  As part of the government’s Accelerated Regional Roading Package, the New Zealand Transport Agency investigated improvements to the section of State Highway 3 between Awakino Gorge and Mt Messenger. We sought public feedback on the current route and submissions on this project have now closed (Monday 13 April 2015). We received 251 responses to the survey from a range of submitters, including council, interest groups, and members of the public, and are currently collating the feedback.

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass Amendment 2015
  The NZ Transport Agency consulted, on behalf of the Minister of Transport, on proposed changes to Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2002. Consultation on the proposed changes was carried out to ensure that legislation is sound and robust and that the rules development process takes account of the views of, and the impact on, people affected by proposed rule changes. Submissions closed on Thursday 2 April 2015.
• State highway safe network activity manual
  The State highway safe network activity manual provides advice and best practice guidance to network safety managers and road safety practitioners working on New Zealand roads in terms of road safety and replaces the Transit state highway safety management system manual, edition 4, March 2007. Submissions closed on Friday 27 February 2015.

• Review of the requirements for urban buses in New Zealand
  The NZ Transport Agency sought comments as part of a regular three year review of the Requirements for urban buses in New Zealand (RUB) document. Submissions closed on 24 October 2014.
• Cycling Safety Panel consultation
  The Cycling Safety Panel was convened by the NZ Transport Agency in response to the findings of a coronial review of cycling safety in New Zealand, released in November 2013 by Coroner Gordon Matenga.

• Specification and guidelines for road lighting design
  The Transport Agency developed these guidelines to assist lighting asset owners, design consultants and suppliers capture the maximum benefits from newer lighting technologies, particularly LED road lighting. Submissions closed 30 September 2014.
• Guidelines for public transport infrastructure and facilities – interim consultation draft
  Feedback was sought on proposed guidelines for public transport infrastructure and facilities. These guidelines provide a set of core principles for all public transport infrastructure as well as some specific guidance for bus stops. Submissions closed 14 July 2014.
• Land Transport Rule: Omnibus Amendment 2014
  Comments were sought on proposed changes to a range of land transport rules. Submissions closed on 20 June 2014.
• State Highway 3 north of New Plymouth – proposal to make the temporary 80km/h speed limit permanent
  The NZ Transport Agency proposed making the two temporary speed limits on State Highway 3 (Devon Road) between Bell Block and Waitara permanent. Survey closed on 20 June 2014.
• Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Amendment Rule 2014
  Comments were sought on proposed rule changes that introduce time limits for learner and restricted licence holders, more flexibility around transactions and changes to evidence of identity requirements. Submissions closed on 28 May 2014.
• Land Transport Rule: Light-vehicle Brakes Amendment 2014
  Comments were sought on proposed rule changes to make the fitting of electronic stability control in new and used light passenger and commercial vehicles mandatory. Submissions closed 22 April 2014.
• Proposed changes to legislation relating to overweight and high-productivity motor vehicles
  We sought comments on proposed changes to the legislation (rule and regulations) relating to overweight and high-productivity motor vehicles. Submissions closed 7 April 2014.
• Funding assistance rates (FAR) review options discussion document
  The Transport Agency invited feedback on the second stage of the funding assistance rates review into how to appropriately share the costs of building, operating and maintaining the land transport network across regions and the country between local government and the National Land Transport Fund. Submissions closed 28 March 2014.
• Vehicle certification and road user charges administration fee review
  The NZ Transport Agency reviewed the administration fees associated with vehicle certification (certificate of fitness and warrant of fitness) and Road User Charges (RUC). Submissions closed 11 February 2014.
• Interim guidelines for preparing regional public transport plans
  The NZ Transport Agency invited feedback from the public transport sector on the Interim guidelines for preparing regional public transport plans . These guidelines reflect recent legislative and operational policy changes. Submissions closed 4 November 2013.

On 17 August 2015 we introduced a permit safety check when processing all high productivity motor vehicle (HPMV) permit applications, 50MAX. This does not affect any pre-existing permits, only new applications.

Transport Agency Freight Portfolio Director Harry Wilson says that for the vast majority of operators in New Zealand the safety check will have no effect on their permit being issued, or how long it takes for their application to be processed.  The cost of a permit also has not changed.

“Making our roads as safe as possible is at the forefront of everything we do,” Harry says.

“We know that most HPMV operators are safety conscious; we are introducing the check as a way to identify the tiny minority who pose a risk to themselves and other road users.” 

The safety check had been discussed with various industry interest groups for some months prior to its introduction. The safety check is seen as a way to ensure both the Transport Agency and road controlling authorities are confident that access and use of their roads is being appropriately managed.

The safety check will look at the Operator Rating System (ORS) score for the previous two years, together with any offences recorded over the previous 12 months. The size of the operator’s fleet will also be taken into account in establishing whether there is a safety risk in granting a permit.

Where we have safety concerns, all available information will be considered before a decision on issuing a permit is made. A 12 month permit with conditions may be issued, or if the safety concerns are deemed serious enough, the application may be declined.

“If an operator is declined or issued with a limited permit, our commercial transport team will work with them to improve the safety of their business,” Harry says.

Any operator who is declined a permit is able to request a review of the decision by writing to the Transport Agency’s Customer Access Operations Manager.

The NZ Transport Agency is focussed on making New Zealand’s freight system safer and more efficient. New Zealand’s freight task is forecast to grow from 236 to 373 million tonnes by 2042 and our priority is to improve safety and efficiency to move more freight with fewer truck trips using HPMVs. 

For a set of frequently asked questions about the checks see our website .  

H plate on a high productivity motor vehicle.

H plate on a high productivity motor vehicle.

An initiative aimed at making it easier for our customers to move freight is the development of an online map showing the nationwide network of high productivity freight routes available for full High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMV).

The map and some frequently asked questions, including information about the type of vehicles which are suitable for full HPMV, are available here , or as a link from the HPMV page on our website, www.nzta.govt.nz/hpmv .

The map will be continually updated as new routes are added so operators are encouraged to keep checking the website to ensure they are up to date with the latest available routes.

This year the nationwide network of access for full HPMV reached the milestone of 4500 kilometres after a sustained programme of investment by the Transport Agency to strengthen bridges on economically viable routes.

The full HPMV map is in addition to the 50MAX access map also available on our website, https://maps.nzta.govt.nz/portal/home/ . It’s important to remember that while the maps show the routes available for full HPMVs and 50MAX, operators still need to obtain a permit and approval from the appropriate road controlling authority or the Transport Agency before travelling on the roads shown.

Operators should also familiarise themselves with the distinct differences including the legend of the two freight network maps. This means understanding how their permit applies according to where they are on each particular network, and what weights they are carrying

Share the road is part of our wider safety strategy to make New Zealand roads a safer place to ride bikes and to promote

To achieve this, our campaign is designed to personalise people cycling so that motorists see them as real people, people just like them or their friends and family, who have as much right to share the road safely. We want drivers to see the person not simply the bike.

Listen here for a sneak preview of our radio ads.

Read more about the campaign here.

There’s growing demand from New Zealander’s who want to cycle more. Cycling is already the third most popular recreational activity in NZ and with up to 76% of residents in our biggest urban areas saying they’d cycle if safe, separated cycleways were provided, we’re on our way to getting more people cycling to work.

Over the next three years $333 million of shared investment from the Urban Cycleways Fund, the National Land Transport Fund and local government, will enable 54 world-class cycleway projects from Whangarei to Dunedin to get underway.

This is the single biggest investment in cycling in New Zealand’s history helping more people to cycle more safely, to more places, more often.

It’s exciting stuff – we’ve already completed seven projects including the Longburn Track in Palmerston North, the first cycleway to be opened in the North Island through the Programme, and the Matai Street East cycleway in Christchurch, part of the new Uni-Cycle route, 

If you want to know more about individual projects in your area click here . 

To ensure we achieve our goal, the Transport Agency has:

• teamed the NZ Government with Local Councils to deliver positive  changes to cycling in New Zealand
• made cycling one of our top six priorities for 2015–19
• set up a new core cycling team dedicated to making positive change to cycling
• developed a comprehensive programme to making cycling a safer and more attractive transport choice that wraps around the investment of cycle ways in urban centres across New Zealand.

The reason why we’re prioritising cycling is because of the extensive benefits it can bring to all New Zealanders. Here are just some of our favourites:

• More than a third of New Zealanders have indicated that they want to use cycling as their everyday transport choice - to commute to and from work and school, to visit friends, to go to the shops, to get some exercise, or to simply go for a ride around the block. By investing in cycling we are giving everyone more freedom of choice to choose cycling as a safe, genuine transport option.
• New Zealanders will enjoy a better place to live, work, play and move with research showing that bike friendly cities are more vibrant, connected, social and offer a higher quality of life.
• More people cycling leads to healthier communities with those who cycle having a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke and cancer.
• Everyone will benefit from the cleaner air, less fuel to import, reduced costs of climate change, better traffic flow on the roads and quieter streets, even those who don’t ride bikes themselves.
• New Zealand can be promoted as a world class cycling destination, enabling more visitors to explore our great landscape up front and personal from behind the handlebars.

This newsletter will keep you up to date with the great things we’re delivering for cycling around New Zealand so you can keep your finger on the pulse. Click here to subscribe today.

We’re always watching what’s going on around the globe to promote safer cycling and the Tasmanian Government has recently released one of the funniest and most creative ads we’ve seen!

Click here to watch the ad for your daily dose of light hearted viewing pleasure!

Many South Island roads will be busy and ANZAC Day services on Monday, 25 April, will create the need for short-term detours in some places. 

In Otago and Southland, roads should not be as busy as for Easter, based on previous years’ traffic volumes, says the Transport Agency’s Journey Manager Graeme Hall.

But he notes that drivers should be aware that many people will be on unfamiliar roads, “so please be patient.”

The Transport Agency encourages people to check tyres, indicators, wind-wipers and lights before they load up the car.

“Planning your journey and being a considerate driver will help everyone to get to their destination safely to enjoy the long weekend. Don’t underestimate the importance of taking regular breaks or sharing the driving where possible,” said Mr Hall.

The Transport Agency is stopping all maintenance work in Otago and Southland over the ANZAC weekend, as the summer work season comes to an end.

Drivers are asked to observe any speed limit restrictions in place and watch following distances through road works sites.

• Look up the traffic congestion HotSpots showing locations and times of peak congestion for Anzac Weekend here.
• Find an ANZAC Day service here.
• For the latest on highway conditions, go to www.highwayinfo.govt.nz, phone the Transport Agency’s 0800 4 HIGHWAYS info line or check the Facebook pages. (www.facebook.com/nztasouthisland)
• Southland /Otago Transport Agency Twitter page here @NZTAOS #ANZACTraffic

On this page

• Application
• Manual sections
• Forms used for traffic management plans
• Technical notes
• Training
• CoPTTM governance group
• Levels of temporary traffic management: diagrams
• Signs used for temporary traffic management
• Section I – Specific activity procedures and diagrams
• Section J – Level 1 temporary traffic management handbook
• Amendments
• Archived CoPTTM documents
• Conference publications
  • TTM Conference 2013 (Rotorua)
  • TTM Conference 2015 (Taupo)
• Roadshow 2012

Application

The 4th edition CoPTTM was available for use from 1 August 2012. It became mandatory on 1 November 2012. The 4th edition CoPTTM may be applied from 1 August 2012, however it will not become mandatory until 1 November 2012. After 1 November, parties to existing contracts signed using the 3rd edition may continue to apply the 3rd edition, or both parties by mutual agreement may move to the 4th edition.

Generic traffic management plans (GTMP) lodged using the 3rd edition traffic management plan (TMP) form may remain in use until they are due for their 12-month review.

Manual sections

The manual sections listed below may be downloaded at no cost. Hard copies can be ordered from NZ Print: email  info@nzprint.co.nz or phone (04) 801 7892.

Forms used for traffic management plans

Technical notes

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Training

CoPTTM governance group

Levels of temporary traffic management (TTM): diagrams

All state highways are classified as a particular TTM level dependent on the traffic volumes. Four levels of TTM are described within the code and, in increasing order of complexity, these are:

• Level LV - Low Volume Roads (AADT less than 500vpd)
• Level 1 - Low to Moderate Volume Roads (AADT 500 to 10,000vpd)
• Level 2 - High Volume Roads (AADT greater than 10,000vpd)
• Level 3 - High Volume, High Speed Multi-lane Roads, Expressways and Motorways (AADT greater than 10,000vpd and speed greater than 75 km/h)

It should be noted that all state highways are classified as level 1 TTM unless shown otherwise on the maps listed.

Signs used for temporary traffic management

For the dimensional, colour and layout requirements for traffic signs in New Zealand see the Traffic sign specifications section of the Traffic control devices manual.

To get a GIF image of a particular sign (eg to use in a traffic management diagram) follow the Get GIF image of sign instructions.

• Section I – Specific activity procedures and diagrams
• Section J – Level 1 temporary traffic management handbook

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Amendments

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Archived CoPTTM documents

• 4th edition manual sections effective from 1 December 2014 to 31 July 2015
• 4th edition manual sections effective from 1 July 2013 to 30 November 2014
• 3rd edition manual sections

The detour is at Mingha Bluff, east of Arthur’s Pass township, where the NZ Transport Agency is realigning the road for improved safety and visibility. The detour will take the road over the railway line to the north for about 500 metres. The one-lane detour will be controlled with temporary traffic lights.

“When a train is on the track, gates and other safety measures will be used to ensure no one is on the road detour,” said Colin Knaggs, Transport Agency Highway Manager. “This detour may cause delays of up to 10 minutes when a train is passing through, but delays will be short at other times.  This same detour was used in January this year successfully.”

The detour will allow the Transport Agency’s crew to safely complete sections of the retaining wall around the bluff.

Photo Mingha Bluff -  courtesy Stu Drake.

This photo was taken in January 2016 when the lower detour road was used. The top road is the existing road, the middle road is the new, safer alignment under construction.

Background on the Mingha Bluff Realigment Project

Work began on this $22 million project nearly a year ago and it is expected to take around two years to complete.

It will deliver the most significant safety improvements on the state highway between Christchurch and Greymouth in more than a decade. “The new road will be a safer and more forgiving route, with many tight curves removed, dips and hollows smoothed and a wider, nine metre carriageway,” said Mr Knaggs.

This is one of five critically important highway projects included in the government’s accelerated regional highways package announced in June 2014.

The project will improve safety on a 5km length of the state highway from Mingha Bluff to Rough Creek. The highway will be realigned closer to the railway line and widened to improve safety and reliability, at the same time minimising environmental impacts on Arthur’s Pass National Park.

Mr Knaggs said other sections of the highway have undergone substantial upgrades in the past with projects such as the Otira Viaduct and Candy's Bend improvements. These have seen a steady increase in traffic as drivers now view State Highway 73 as a safer and more reliable route.