Wellington Regional Office Media Release

18 October 2004

Variable message signs for Centennial Highway

Transit New Zealand will be making use of new variable message signs on Centennial Highway (State Highway 1) south of Paekakariki.

Transit’s regional asset manager, Kevin Locke, said portable variable message signs will be placed at each end of the highway to reinforce to motorists the message that the area is an accident zone and to drive with care and stay alert.

“The variable message signs – similar to the permanent signs at Ngauranga but trailer mounted – will be placed just north of Pukerua Bay and just south of Paekakariki,” said Mr Locke.

“This is another measure we are implementing to improve the overall level of safety on this section of road.”

The signs are portable and will also be used at other locations as needed. Messages can be changed remotely using a laptop with a mobile phone connection.

Mr Locke said the signs could be used to alert motorists of any incidents or delays on the state highway. “If the Rimutaka Hill Road was closed, the signs could be used to direct traffic to an alternative route.”

Transit has recently purchased the portable variable message signs and they are the first signs of their type to be permanently based in the Wellington region.

ENDS

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