Traffic Note 14 - Revision 2

Appendix 3: Active warning signs trial

Print version: Appendix 3: Active warning signs trial (PDF, 15 KB)

Purpose of trial

In many overseas jurisdictions, flashing lights are used to give additional emphasis to the warning or instruction given on a sign. In New Zealand such use has been restricted formally to variable message signs including those installed on Auckland and Wellington motorways, some road work vehicles, variable speed limits in school zones and advance warning to traffic signals.

There is sometimes a need for warning signs that become 'active' only when a temporary condition exists. However, in many situations the high cost of full variable message signage cannot be justified.

The Timaru District Council and the Invercargill City Council proposed a trial of the use of flashing lights attached to signs in four specific applications as attached. These signs are distinguishable from other signs in that they have symbols or wording on a black background.

The results from the initial trials in Timaru District and Invercargill City have been inconclusive. These trials have therefore been extended and an additional trial of both school zone signs has been established in Dunedin City.

The Director of Land Transport (Director) considered the application for a trial in Dunedin City Council and his approval along with the extension to the original trial was published in the NZ Gazette on 27 April 2006. (See attached copy (PDF, 36 KB).)

Need for approval

The 'active' signs are proposed alternatives to existing signage and differ significantly from the legislated format. In the case of the Option 1 school bus sign, the implications in terms of driver obligations require formal recognition of the sign format to be given by the NZ Gazette notice. The Director was therefore required to approve the signs for the purposes of the trial.

Contact details

For further information about these trials please contact:

Brian Ward, Timaru District Council, PO Box 522, Timaru
Phone 03 684 8199 ext 8111, email brianw@timdc.govt.nz

Eddie Cook, Invercargill City Council, Private Bag 90 104, Invercargill
Phone 03 211 1694, email eddie.cook@icc.govt.nz

Teresa Matassa, Dunedin City Council, PO Box 5045, Dunedin
Phone 03 474 3601, email tmatassa@dcc.govt.nz

Yvonne Warnaar, Land Transport New Zealand, PO Box 13 364, Christchurch
Phone 03 363 5642, email yvonne.warnaar@nzta.govt.nz

Last updated: 27 October 2006