Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004 specifies the requirements for the design, construction, installation, operation and maintenance of traffic control devices, and sets out the functions and responsibilities of road controlling authorities in providing traffic control devices to give effect to their decisions on the control of traffic.

This rule clarifies, consolidates and rationalises the existing requirements for traffic control devices. It addresses the risks to land transport safety arising from the use of traffic control devices.

The objective of the rule is to contribute to a safe and efficient road network by ensuring that traffic is controlled by means of traffic control devices that are safe, appropriate, effective and uniform and are applied in a consistent manner.

The purpose of this rule is to contribute to the safe and efficient operation of our road network by:

- requiring uniformity in the form, appearance and placement of traffic control devices;
- establishing minimum standards for traffic control devices;
- specifying who may authorise and install traffic control devices;
- ensuring that road controlling authorities have regard to safe practice in the design and installation of traffic control devices and how they are used for traffic management.

The rule states who is responsible for ensuring compliance with its requirements: road controlling authorities, rail operators, operators of hand-held ‘Stop’ signs, school patrols and all other road users.

Extent of consultation

Consultation on Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004 began formally, in February 2002, with the release of the red draft for comment by industry and other interested organisations and individuals. Fifty-five submissions were received.

The Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA) released the public consultation (yellow) draft of the rule in February 2003 and sent copies to more than 560 organisations and individuals who had expressed an interest, or who were considered likely to be interested, in the rule. The availability of the yellow draft was publicised in metropolitan newspapers, selected regional newspapers, the New Zealand Gazette, Te Maori News, and various industry publications. Copies of the draft rules were sent to overseas libraries and transport authorities. The draft rule and associated material were also accessible on the LTSA’s website. The LTSA received 65 submissions on the yellow draft rule.

To assist with the production of the rule, the LTSA appointed a Technical Advisory Group of experts drawn from Transit New Zealand, Association of Consulting Engineers of New Zealand, New Zealand Road Safety Manufacturers Association, New Zealand Automobile Association, New Zealand Roadmarkers Federation, New Zealand Police, and Christchurch, Manukau and Hamilton City Councils. The members of the Technical Advisory Group provided advice as technical experts rather than as representatives of their respective organisations. They provided the LTSA with useful comments that were taken into account in drafting the rule.

Issues identified in submissions were taken into account in redrafting this rule, and when required, were resolved through discussion with the affected industry group, before the rule was submitted to Cabinet, and to the Minister for Transport Safety for signature.

Material incorporated by reference

Documents that are ‘incorporated by reference’ in this rule are available, on request, for inspection (free of charge) at the head office of the LTSA. Contact details for the LTSA are listed at the front of the rule.

Part 1 Rule requirements

Section 1 Application

1.1 Title

This rule is Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices 2004.

1.2 Scope of the rule

This rule:

(a) specifies requirements for the design, construction, installation, operation and maintenance of traffic control devices; and
(b) sets out the functions and responsibilities of road controlling authorities in providing traffic control devices to give effect to their decisions on the control of traffic.

1.3 Objective of the rule

The objective of this rule is to contribute to a safe and efficient roading environment for all road users by ensuring that traffic is controlled by means of traffic control devices that are safe, appropriate, effective, uniform and consistently applied.

1.4 Date when rule comes into force

This rule comes into force on 27 February 2005.

1.5 Application of rule provisions

If there is a conflict between a provision of this rule and the corresponding provision of a document incorporated by reference in the rule, the provision of this rule applies.

Section 2 Role of road controlling authorities

2.1(1) A road controlling authority must:

(a) authorise and, as appropriate, install or operate traffic control devices:
- (i) if required by or under this rule or other enactment; or
- (ii) to instruct road users of a prohibition or requirement that it has made concerning traffic on a road under its control; or
- (iii) to warn road users of a hazard; and
(b) remove a traffic control device if required by or under this rule or other enactment.

2.1(2) A road controlling authority may authorise and, as appropriate, install, operate or remove traffic control devices:

(a) if desirable for the guidance of traffic or to draw attention to a requirement that controls traffic; or
(b) to provide information to road users.

Section 3 General requirements for traffic control devices

3.1 General safety requirements for traffic control devices

Traffic control devices, whether used singly or in combination, must contribute to the safe and effective control of traffic, and must:

(a) be safe and appropriate for the road, its environment or the use of the road; and
(b) not dazzle, distract or mislead road users; and
(c) convey a clear and consistent message to road users; and
(d) be placed so as to:
- (i) be visible to road users; and
- (ii) be legible to road users, if of a type that includes written words or symbols; and
- (iii) allow adequate time for the intended response from road users; and
(e) comply with the relevant requirements in Schedules 1, 2 and 3; and
(f) be maintained in good repair.

3.2 Use of traffic control devices

3.2(1) Except as otherwise provided in this rule, a traffic control device that was authorised by or under any enactment and installed before the commencement of this rule may continue to be used for the purpose for which it was intended, only if it:

(a) remains in good repair; and
(b) is safe and adequate for its intended use.

3.2(2) Except as provided in 4.2(6), 4.2(9), 4.4(14), 4.4(17) and 11.7(1)(b), a person must not provide or operate a traffic control device on a road without first obtaining approval from the road controlling authority in control of that road.

3.2(3) The Director may, at any time, by notice in writing to a road controlling authority, prohibit the installation, or require the modification or removal, of a traffic control device that does not comply with this rule, or that presents, or may present, a hazard to road safety.

3.2(4) The Director may direct a road controlling authority to install any traffic control device that the Director considers necessary in the interests of the safe or efficient use of a road.

3.2(5) A person must not install on a road, or in or on a place visible from a road, a sign, device or object that is not a traffic control device; but that:

(a) may be mistaken for a traffic control device; or
(b) may prevent the traffic control device from complying with 3.1(a) to (d).

3.2(6) A person must not:

(a) damage or otherwise interfere with a traffic control device in any way; or
(b) remove or obscure a traffic control device unless authorised by:
- (i) a road controlling authority; or
- (ii) the Director under 13.8; or
- (iii) a member of the New Zealand Police under 13.9.

3.3 Matters to be taken into account when providing, modifying and removing traffic control devices

A road controlling authority, in deciding whether to provide, modify or remove a traffic control device, must:

(a) comply with:
- (i) relevant requirements in Schedules 1, 2 and 3; and
- (ii) a safety management system developed by the road controlling authority for that area; and
- (iii) a direction given by the Director under 13.8; and
(b) ensure that the impact of providing, modifying or removing the traffic control device is consistent with the current regional land transport strategy for that area.

3.4 Trials of traffic control devices

3.4(1) The Director may, from time to time, by notice in the Gazette, authorise a road controlling authority to install and maintain a traffic control device for trial purposes.

3.4(2) If the Director declines to authorise a trial under 3.4(1), the Director must advise the road controlling authority of the grounds for doing so.

3.4(3) Although it may not otherwise comply with this rule, a traffic control device in 3.4(1) must comply with:

(a) subclauses 3.1(a), (b), (c), (d) and (f); and
(b) subclause 3.1(e), except to the extent approved by the Director for the purpose of the trial.

3.4(4) The Director must state the following in the Gazette notice:

(a) the purpose of the trial; and
(b) the place where the trial is to be held; and
(c) the period, not exceeding two years, of the trial; and
(d) the terms and conditions of the trial; and
(e) any type of traffic control device in use under this rule that is equivalent to the traffic control device to be used in the trial.

3.4(5) The Director may impose any other terms and conditions on the trial of a traffic control device that the Director considers necessary.

3.4(6) Not less than two weeks before a trial traffic control device is installed, a road controlling authority must advertise separately in at least two editions of a local newspaper circulating in the district in which the trial is to be held, the placement of the traffic control device to be trialled and the purpose of the trial.

3.4(7) The Director may terminate the trial of a traffic control device by notice in writing to the road controlling authority, stating the grounds for the decision to terminate the trial, if the Director considers it is unsafe to continue the trial or the circumstances relating to the trial have changed or the conditions of the trial are not being complied with.

3.4(8) If a trial is terminated in accordance with 3.4(7), the Director must notify the termination of the trial by notice in the Gazette.

3.4(9) A road controlling authority must remove a traffic control device installed under 3.4(1) immediately following the receipt of notice under 3.4(7).

3.4(10) If the Director is satisfied that the results of a trial justify a recommendation that this rule be amended to allow all road controlling authorities to use the traffic control device, the traffic control device may continue in use, subject to any conditions that the Director may impose, until either:

(a) the rule is amended, in which case the traffic control device may continue in use provided that it complies with the amended rule; or
(b) a decision is made not to amend the rule and, on written notification of this decision, the road controlling authority must remove the traffic control device immediately.

3.4(11) If 3.4(10)(a) applies, the Director must notify the continued use of the traffic control device by notice in the Gazette.

Section 4 Traffic signs

4.1 Purposes of traffic signs

A traffic sign may be:

(a) ‘regulatory’ (including speed limit and parking signs), that is, it instructs road users by requiring or prohibiting specified actions in using a road;
(b) ‘warning’, that is, it informs road users of hazards or of other features requiring a safe response on or near a road;
(c) ‘advisory’, that is, it provides road users with information or guidance (including information about destinations, routes, amenities, distances, street name signs and place names).

4.2 Provision of traffic signs

Regulatory signs

4.2(1) A road controlling authority must provide a regulatory sign to instruct road users of the speed at which they may travel where a speed limit changes, and at intervals within the speed limit area, as specified in section 8 of Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2003.

4.2(2) A road controlling authority must install regulatory signs in accordance with 4.2(3) to draw attention to a requirement, restriction or prohibition on road users when:

(a) the road controlling authority has made the requirement, restriction or prohibition by bylaw (or other instrument) on a road under its control; or
(b) this rule or any other enactment requires the installation of a regulatory sign to draw attention to the requirement, restriction or prohibition; or
(c) this rule or any other enactment does not require the installation of a regulatory sign, but the road controlling authority considers it desirable that a sign be installed.

4.2(3) Regulatory signs must be installed to instruct road users of a requirement, restriction or prohibition on traffic:

(a) at each point where the requirement, restriction or prohibition applies; or
(b) where the requirement, restriction or prohibition applies to a length of road:
- (i) at the start; and
- (ii) after each intersection along its length; and
- (iii) at the end; and
- (iv) at intervals along its length, as specified in this rule or other enactment; or
(c) where the requirement, restriction or prohibition applies to a zone restriction at:
- (i) each entry point to the zone; and
- (ii) intervals within the zone, as specified in this rule; and
- (iii) each exit point from the zone.

Permanent warning signs

4.2(4) A road controlling authority must install a permanent warning sign at any place where it considers special care or reduced speed is appropriate, and, in particular, must consider its appropriateness near the entrance to a school, kindergarten, pre-school centre or hospital.

Temporary warning signs

4.2(5) A road controlling authority must install temporary warning signs if it considers there is, or is likely to arise, at any place on a road, a temporary risk of:

(a) danger to the public or to road workers; or
(b) damage to the road.

4.2(6) For a temporary hazard, such as a disabled vehicle on the road, an accident, a slip, a washout or a broken transmission line, an appropriate temporary warning sign may be erected by:

(a) emergency services personnel; or
(b) a worker involved in removing the temporary hazard, or in making the hazard area safe.

4.2(7) A temporary sign under 4.2(5) and 4.2(6) must be removed as soon as the need for it has ended.

4.2(8) Despite 4.2(7), the Director or a member of the New Zealand Police may, at any time, direct that a temporary warning sign be removed or additional signs be installed.

4.2(9) Any person may erect a ‘warning’ triangle sign on a roadway to inform approaching road users of an accident or a broken-down vehicle.

Advisory signs

4.2(10) A road controlling authority must install and maintain signs, as it considers necessary or desirable, to inform road users of destinations, routes, street names, distances, the names of localities or other information of value to road users.

4.3 Types of traffic sign

4.3(1) A traffic sign that displays appropriate regulatory, warning or advisory messages for road users may be either:

(a) a ‘permanent’ sign; or
(b) a ‘temporary’ sign installed for a temporary hazard on a road, or a temporary risk of danger to road users or of damage to the road.

4.3(2) A ‘variable’ traffic sign, which is capable of displaying a different message to meet traffic management needs at different times, may be either a permanent or a temporary sign.

4.4 General requirements for traffic signs

Description of traffic signs

4.4(1) Subject to 4.4(2), a traffic sign, and the details on the sign, must comply with the minimum dimensions specified in Schedule 1.

4.4(2) The dimensions of a traffic sign may be increased provided that the dimensions of each letter, numeral, symbol or other detail on the sign are kept in approximate proportion to the dimensions of the other details on the sign.

4.4(3) Except as provided in 4.4(4) and 4.4(5), a traffic sign may display only words or symbols that are allowed by this rule.

4.4(4) Despite 4.4(3), the Director may, by notice in the Gazette, authorise the installation and maintenance of a traffic sign that does not comply with this rule.

4.4(5) A traffic sign, other than a regulatory sign, may display one monogram or one logo:

(a) for a street name sign, to identify the road controlling authority or locality within a road controlling authority’s area, provided that the monogram or logo does not detract from the legibility of the street name sign;
(b) for a sign other than one in (a), provided that:
- (i) on a sign less than 1 m² in area, the monogram or logo is not larger than 30 cm²;
- (ii) on a sign 1 m² or greater in area, the monogram or logo is not larger than 100 cm².

4.4(6) A traffic sign may not display on the reverse side written material or a monogram, except:

(a) another traffic sign as provided in 4.5(1); or
(b) a non-reflective sticker, label or other device no more than 100 cm², which may contain:
- (i) details of the ownership of the sign; or
- (ii) information that uniquely identifies the sign; or
- (iii) details of manufacture, installation or maintenance.

4.4(7) If this rule requires a traffic sign or part of a traffic sign to be reflectorised, it must be:

(a) reflectorised by the use of reflective material that is approved by the Director by notice in the Gazette; or
(b) internally or externally illuminated so as to be visible when illuminated.

4.4(8) A traffic sign, or a letter, numeral, border or symbol displayed on a traffic sign, must be of a type and of the appropriate colour specified in Schedule 1.

Installation of traffic signs

4.4(9) A road controlling authority must install a traffic sign on the left-hand side of the road from the point of view of a person approaching the sign, except if a different position:

(a) would be safer and more effective in the circumstances; or
(b) is specified in any enactment.

4.4(10) If a traffic sign has been installed on the left-hand side of the road, a sign conveying the same message may also be installed on the right-hand side of the road, on a traffic island or on a median.

Support for traffic signs

4.4(11) Written material (other than a supplementary notice relating to a passenger service) or a monogram must not be displayed on a pole on which a road controlling authority has installed a traffic sign.

4.4(12) The colour and form of a pole that is used to support a traffic sign specified in 6.3(4), 6.3(5), 8.2(9) and 9.4(3) may be used only for the purpose specified in those provisions.

Vehicle-mounted signs

4.4(13) A traffic sign must not be displayed on a vehicle unless:

(a) allowed under 4.4(14) or 4.4(17) to 4.4(19), or under another enactment; or
(b) the display complies with Schedule 1.

4.4(14) A motor vehicle that is being used as a school bus must display on the outside of the vehicle a ‘School Bus’ sign, as specified in Schedule 1, at both the front and the rear.

4.4(15) A sign in 4.4(14) must be mounted:

(a) at the rear, with its lower edge not less than 1.5 m from the ground in the centre-line, or to the right of the centre-line, of the school bus when it is facing forward;
(b) at the front, so as to be visible to road users approaching the vehicle from the front and on the opposite side of the roadway.

4.4(16) When a vehicle in 4.4(14) is not being used for transporting school children, the ‘School Bus’ sign must not be displayed.

4.4(17) A motor vehicle that is required under Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimensions and Mass 2002 to display a vehicle-mounted sign must comply with the relevant provisions in that rule relating to vehicle-mounted signs.

4.4(18) An appropriate warning sign may be installed on a motor vehicle:

(a) engaged in road maintenance or other work while moving along the road; or
(b) being used to inform other road users of the presence of a moving hazard including a vehicle in (a), stock or people in a parade or event.

4.4(19) A variable traffic sign that provides a range of information to motorists and that complies with 4.6, may be mounted on a motor vehicle provided that the vehicle remains stationary in a safe position on the road side.

4.4(20) The information that may be provided by a variable traffic sign in 4.4(19) includes:

(a) traffic and road conditions applying and advice on actions motorists might take as a result; or
(b) future activity on or near the road that will affect motorists using that road in terms of route choice or travel delays.

4.4(21) When a motor vehicle is not being used for any of the purposes described in 4.4(18) or 4.4(19) the sign must not be displayed.

4.5 Specific requirements for traffic signs

Combining signs

4.5(1) A traffic sign must not be installed with another sign on the same pole or in the same location on the same building, wall or fence, except:

(a) as provided in 9.4(7), 9.4(8), 10.5(2), 11.4(3) and 12.6(4); or
(b) if:
- (i) each sign is installed so that its message is seen only by traffic for which the message is intended; and
- (ii) the shape, size or orientation of any sign does not obscure the sign, or mislead or distract road users from the sign intended to be seen by traffic moving in another direction.

Signs on traffic signals or pedestrian poles

4.5(2) A traffic sign must not be installed on:

(a) a pole supporting a traffic signal, except as provided in 9.4(8) or 10.5(2); or
(b) a black and white pole installed at a pedestrian crossing, except as provided in 8.2(9).

4.6 Variable traffic signs

A variable traffic sign must:

(a) in changing from one traffic sign to another, conform to a protocol approved by the road controlling authority; and
(b) display only traffic signs that comply with Schedule 1 and that are approved by the road controlling authority.

4.7 Advertising signs

A sign, hoarding or similar structure used or intended to be used for the purposes of advertising must not contain:

(a) reflective material, if it is likely to reflect the light from the lamps of any vehicle on the road; or
(b) fluorescent or phosphorescent material, if it is likely to mislead or distract drivers from traffic signs installed in the vicinity or mask those signs.

Section 5 Markings

5.1 Purposes of markings

A marking has one of the following functions:

(a) ‘regulatory’, that is, it instructs road users by requiring or prohibiting specified actions in using a road;
(b) ‘warning’, that is, it informs road users of permanent hazards on a roadway or gives advance notice of features on or near a road;
(c) ‘advisory’, that is, it provides road users with information or guidance in the intended use of the road.

5.2 Provision of markings

5.2(1) A road controlling authority must, except if the road surface makes this impracticable, provide markings if required to do so by this rule or any other enactment.

5.2(2) When providing markings for any of the purposes in 5.1, a road controlling authority must comply with this rule.

5.2(3) A road controlling authority may provide regulatory markings on a road under its control if necessary or desirable for the guidance of traffic or to draw attention to a requirement that controls traffic.

5.3 Method of marking

A marking may consist of:

(a) paint, material resembling paint, or non-reflectorised, reflectorised or illuminated pavement markers; or
(b) contrasting surface texture or colour defining an area of road that is used for a specific purpose and that may supplement, but not replace, a regulatory marking or sign.

5.4 General requirements for markings

Description of markings

5.4(1) A marking, whether or not required under this rule, must comply with the relevant specifications in Schedule 2.

5.4(2) Subject to 5.4(3), a marking must comply with the minimum dimensions specified in Schedule 2.

5.4(3) The dimensions of a marking may be increased provided that the dimensions of each letter, numeral, symbol, border or other detail displayed on the marking are kept in approximate proportion to the dimensions of the other details on the marking.

5.4(4) If this rule requires a marking to be reflectorised, it must be:

(a) reflectorised by the use of reflective material; or
(b) internally illuminated so as to be visible when illuminated.

5.4(5) A letter or numeral displayed by a marking must be of a type specified in Schedule 2.

5.4(6) A raised pavement marker that is applied or attached permanently to the roadway must be white or yellow, except if it is a marker that is:

(a) blue and is installed on, or just to the left of, the centre-line of the roadway and is used only to mark the presence of a fire hydrant or other water source used for firefighting; or
(b) red and is installed only on the left-hand side of the roadway to mark the edge of the safe, useable portion of the roadway; or
(c) green and is installed on, or just to the left of, the centre-line of the roadway and is used only to mark the presence of a culvert or other drain under the roadway.

5.4(7) A raised pavement marker that was installed before the commencement of this rule that does not comply with 5.4(6) must be removed by 30 June 2009.

5.5 Markings intended for advertising purposes

A person must not install, on a roadway, a marking that is intended to be used for the purpose of advertising or other purpose not connected with the use of the road.

Section 6 Traffic signals

6.1 Types and purposes of traffic signals

Traffic signals must be one of the following types:

(a) steady vehicle displays that when operational:
- (i) provide continuous control of the movement of vehicles; or
- (ii) are roundabout signals for the purposes described in 6.4(13); or
- (iii) are ramp signals for the purpose described in 6.4(16); or
- (iv) are temporary traffic signals for the purposes described in 6.4(21); or
(b) when the circumstances warrant, flashing vehicle displays that, when operational, control the movement of vehicles or warn drivers that they must be prepared to stop; or
(c) pedestrian displays that, when operational, control the movement of pedestrians.

6.2 Provision of traffic signals

6.2(1) In an area controlled by traffic signals, a road controlling authority must install, for each approach to the area controlled by traffic signals:

(a) if practicable, a limit line in accordance with 6.3(3) to define the place where vehicles are required to stop in advance of the area controlled; and
(b) a traffic signal in a position that is visible to road users approaching the controlled area either:
- (i) adjacent to, and as close as practicable to the end of the limit line where marked; or
- (ii) where there is no limit line, at the point of entry to the controlled area; and
(c) except for temporary traffic signals, at least one supplementary steady traffic signal in a position that is visible to road users stopped:
- (i) at the limit line where marked; or
- (ii) where there is no limit line, at the point of entry to the controlled area.

6.2(2) The road controlling authority may install additional signals to allow the controlled area to be used safely and efficiently.

6.3 General requirements for traffic signals

Description of traffic signals

6.3(1) Traffic signal displays must comply with:

(a) Schedule 3 for:
- (i) shape, symbols and letters; and
- (ii) size of display; and
(b) AS2144:2002 Traffic Signal Lanterns for brightness and colour, when existing lanterns are upgraded or replaced.

Signs at traffic signals

6.3(2) Except as provided in 9.4(8) or 10.5(2), a road controlling authority must not install a traffic sign on a pole that supports a traffic signal.

Markings at traffic signals

6.3(3) Where an area of road is controlled by traffic signals, unless the road surface makes it impracticable, a road controlling authority must mark, in accordance with section 5, the following on a roadway under its control:

(a) a limit line, at the point of entry to an area controlled by traffic signals for each lane approaching the area, in the form of a white transverse line that:
- (i) for a cycle lane, or a cycle storage area in advance of a cycle lane, is at least 100 mm wide; or
- (ii) for every other lane, is at least 300 mm wide;
(b) lines to guide pedestrians at pedestrian traffic signals, in accordance with 8.5.

Mounting of signals

6.3(4) A steady traffic signal display, other than a temporary traffic signal or a pedestrian display, must be mounted on:

(a) an unpainted pole or structure; or
(b) a yellow or grey painted pole.

6.3(5) A temporary traffic signal must be mounted on a yellow painted pole or stand and the top of the signal display must be not less than 2.5 m nor more than 4 m from the surface of the road.

6.3(6) If a traffic signal is a flashing red vehicle display:

(a) of a type in 6.5(11), the traffic signal must be mounted on a pole that has alternate reflectorised red and white bands that are at least 300 mm wide; or
(b) of a type in 6.5(13), the traffic signal may be mounted on a pole that has alternate reflectorised red and white bands that are at least 300 mm wide.

6.4 Steady vehicle displays in the form of a continuous display

6.4(1) Except as provided in 6.4(14), the configuration and combination of a steady vehicle display must comply with one of the displays in Schedule 3.

6.4(2) A steady vehicle display of a green, yellow or red disc signal applies to all traffic facing those signals, but may be overridden:

(a) for a red disc display, by:
- (i) a green or yellow arrow signal for traffic intending to travel in the direction indicated by the arrow;
- (ii) a white B signal for buses, a white T signal for light-rail vehicles or a green cycle signal for cycles;
- (iii) a yellow B signal for buses, a yellow T signal for light-rail vehicles or a yellow cycle signal for cycles;
(b) for a yellow disc display, by:
- (i) a red or green arrow signal for traffic intending to travel in the direction indicated by the arrow;
- (ii) a red B signal for buses, a red T signal for light-rail vehicles or a red cycle signal for cycles;
(c) for a green disc display, by:
- (i) a red or yellow arrow signal for traffic intending to travel in the direction indicated by the arrow;
- (ii) a red B signal for buses, a red T signal for light-rail vehicles or a red cycle signal for cycles.

Sequence of steady vehicle displays

6.4(3) A steady vehicle display must operate in the following sequence, as appropriate:

(a) a green disc signal followed by a yellow disc signal in the same column;
(b) a yellow disc signal followed by a red disc signal in the same column;
(c) a red disc signal followed by:
(i) a green disc signal or green arrow signal in the same column; or
(ii) a green arrow signal in an adjacent column;
(d) a green arrow signal followed by a yellow disc signal or yellow arrow signal;
(e) a yellow arrow signal followed by a red arrow signal in the same column, or if there is no red arrow signal in the same column, by a red disc signal or green disc signal in an adjacent column;
(f) a red arrow signal followed by a green arrow signal in the same column, or if there is no green arrow signal in the same column, by a green disc signal in an adjacent column;
(g) a green cycle signal, or a white B or white T signal followed by a yellow cycle, or a yellow B or yellow T signal in the same column or a green disc signal or green arrow signal in an adjacent column;
(h) a yellow cycle, or a yellow B or yellow T signal followed by a red cycle, or a red B or red T signal in the same column or a red disc signal or red arrow signal in an adjacent column.

Operation of steady vehicle displays

6.4(4) In a single or multi-column steady vehicle display, other than for a roundabout signal or ramp signal display, at least one of the signals must be lit.

6.4(5) Two signals must not be displayed simultaneously in the same column, unless:

(a) both are green arrow signals; or
(b) one is a green disc signal and the other is a green arrow signal.

6.4(6) Traffic signals must operate so that vehicular traffic entering a controlled area in compliance with the signals from different approaches does not conflict, except for:

(a) right-turning vehicular traffic against straight-through vehicular traffic from the opposite direction; or
(b) right-turning vehicular traffic against left-turning vehicular traffic from the opposite direction; or
(c) turning vehicular traffic against pedestrian traffic travelling in compliance with the traffic signal displays.

6.4(7) Paragraph 6.4(6)(c) does not apply if a green arrow signal is displayed and if vehicular traffic can proceed in the direction indicated by the arrow without having to give way to vehicular traffic and pedestrians that are allowed to proceed at the same time.

6.4(8) When vehicular traffic in different lanes approaching an area controlled by traffic signals is allowed to move in different directions at different times, multi-column traffic signals mounted side-by-side must be used to control the movement of vehicular traffic in the different lanes.

6.4(9) A steady yellow disc signal must be displayed for at least three seconds.

Displays for special classes of vehicle

6.4(10) If a bus lane traverses an area controlled by traffic signals, the road controlling authority:

(a) must include a white B signal and may include a yellow B signal in the display of traffic signals to indicate when a bus is permitted to turn, or proceed straight ahead, when other vehicles are not allowed to make these movements; or
(b) must include a red B signal in the display of traffic signals to indicate when a bus may not proceed from the bus lane when other vehicles are allowed to move in the same general direction; or
(c) may include a column of white, yellow and red B signals in the display of traffic signals.

6.4(11) If a light-rail vehicle track traverses an area controlled by traffic signals, the road controlling authority:

(a) must include a white T signal and may include a yellow T signal in the display of traffic signals to indicate when a light-rail vehicle is allowed to turn, or proceed straight ahead, when other vehicles are not allowed to make these movements; or
(b) must include a red T signal in the display of traffic signals to indicate when a light-rail vehicle may not proceed along the light-rail vehicle track when other vehicles are allowed to move in the same general direction; or
(c) may include a column of green, white or red T signals in the display of traffic signals.

6.4(12) If a cycle lane traverses an area controlled by traffic signals, the road controlling authority:

(a) must include a green cycle signal and may include a yellow cycle symbol in the display of traffic signals if cycles are allowed to enter an area controlled by signals when other traffic is not allowed to enter that area; or
(b) must include a red cycle signal in the display of traffic signals to indicate when a cycle is not allowed to proceed along the cycle lane when other vehicles are allowed to move in the same general direction; or
(c) may include a green, yellow and red cycle signal in the display of traffic signals.

Roundabout signals

6.4(13) Roundabout signals in the form described in 6.4(14) and sequence described in 6.4(15) may be used to control the traffic from one or more of the approaches to a roundabout for the periods that this is required, if:

(a) excessive queuing and delays are experienced on one or more approaches to a roundabout; or
(b) it is necessary to clear one of the approaches of a roundabout to allow a rail vehicle or an emergency vehicle to proceed safely.

6.4(14) A roundabout signal must comprise:

(a) a red disc signal; and
(b) a yellow disc signal immediately below the red disc signal; and
(c) below the yellow disc signal, a variable traffic sign (sign A) displaying, as appropriate, either:
- (i) a ‘Roundabout-Give-Way’ sign; or
- (ii) the words ‘Stop On Red Signal’; and
(d) at least 60 m in advance of the roundabout, a variable traffic sign (sign B) displaying, as appropriate, either:
- (i) the words ‘Roundabout Operating’; or
- (ii) the words ‘Signal Operating’ with two alternating flashing yellow signals, mounted at the top corners.

6.4(15) A roundabout signal must operate in the following sequence:

(a) sign A displaying the ‘Roundabout-Give-Way’ sign, both the yellow and red disc signals blank and sign B displaying the words ‘Roundabout Operating’;
(b) sign A displaying the ‘Roundabout-Give-Way’ sign, both the yellow and red disc signals blank and sign B displaying the words ‘Signals Operating’ and the alternating yellow signals flashing, followed by:
- (i) sign A displaying the words ‘Stop On Red Signal’; and
- (ii) the yellow disc signal displayed for at least three seconds, followed by the red disc signal;
(c) the display at (b) or, if the period of roundabout signal control ends, (a).

Ramp signals

6.4(16) When traffic entering a motorway is to be controlled to prevent the breakdown of traffic flow on the motorway, ramp signals and signs, in the form and the display in 6.4(17) or the display and signal sequence in 6.4(19) and (20), must be used for the periods for which they are required.

6.4(17) A ramp signal must comprise at least:

(a) for each approach lane to the signals on the ramp a display mounted on a single column (display A) with two single-column, 3-aspect traffic signals (figure 3A of S4-3 in Schedule 3) separated by a variable traffic sign that displays either the words ‘Ramp Signal Off’ or ‘One Vehicle Per Green Each Lane’; and
(b) for each approach to the ramp and visible to approaching drivers in sufficient time to give them the option of avoiding entering the ramp, a display (display B) with a variable traffic sign that displays either the words ‘Ramp Signal On’ or a blank message and one yellow disc signal mounted above the variable traffic sign and one yellow disc signal mounted below it.

6.4(18) A ramp signal may also include, for each approach lane on the ramp in advance of display A, a display (display C) with a traffic signal warning sign erected above a variable traffic sign that displays either the words ‘Prepare to Stop’ or ‘Ramp Signal Off’.

6.4(19) When the ramp signal is in the ‘off’ state:

(a) in display A, none of the traffic signal aspects may be illuminated and the variable traffic sign must read ‘Ramp Signal Off’; and
(b) in display B, the yellow disc signals and the variable traffic sign must be blank; and
(c) in display C, the variable traffic sign must read‘Ramp Signal Off’.

6.4(20) When the ramp signal is operational:

(a) in display A, the variable traffic sign must read ‘One Vehicle Per Green Each Lane’, and the signal display must operate in the following sequence:
- (i) the yellow disc signals, must flash at approximately one Hertz, for a period of at least 10 seconds followed by:
- (ii) the red disc signals followed by:
- (iii) the green disc signals displayed for a maximum period of 1.3 seconds followed by:
- (iv) the yellow disc signals displayed for a maximum period of 0.7 seconds followed by:
  - (A) the red disc signals in (a)(ii); or
  - (B) the red disc signals for at least 3 seconds followed by the ramp signals moving to the ‘off’ state described in 6.4(19);
(b) in display B, the variable traffic sign must read ‘Ramp Signal On’ and the yellow disc signals must flash alternately in accordance with 6.5(6);
(c) in display C, the variable traffic sign must read ‘Prepare to Stop’.

Temporary traffic signals

6.4(21) A road controlling authority may install and operate temporary traffic signals, for a continuous period not exceeding six months, to control traffic only when:

(a) because of road works or other temporary obstruction, a section of road has been reduced in width to one lane or must be closed to through traffic periodically; or
(b) a temporary intersection has been created to allow construction vehicles or other vehicles to cross or enter a roadway.

6.4(22) Temporary traffic signals may operate only when:

(a) temporary warning signs are installed advising approaching drivers that the traffic signals are operating; and
(b) the sequence and timing of displays and other operating requirements of the signals comply with a traffic management plan approved by the road controlling authority.

6.4(23) Temporary traffic signals may operate for non-continuous periods at the same site provided that the signals and all temporary warning signs associated with their operation are removed, securely covered or are otherwise not visible to approaching drivers when the signals are not operating.

6.5 Flashing vehicle displays

Flashing yellow displays for warning of signal malfunction

6.5(1) If traffic signals are out of order because of a signal display outage or for maintenance, yellow signals flashing at approximately one Hertz with approximately equal on- and off-times must be displayed and be visible to all traffic approaching the area controlled by the traffic signals.

Flashing yellow displays for signal commissioning or restart

6.5(2) When traffic signals are commissioned, or are being restarted after a signal outage in 6.5(4)(a) has ended, yellow disc signals flashing at approximately one Hertz must be displayed, and must be:

(a) visible to all traffic approaching the area controlled by the traffic signals; and
(b) displayed for at least 10 seconds and be followed by a period of at least three seconds when all approaches to the area controlled by the traffic signals are displaying red signals.

6.5(3) For the avoidance of doubt, 6.5(2) does not apply to a signal controller installed before the commencement of this rule, provided it complies when upgraded or replaced.

6.5(4) A signal display outage occurs when:

(a) the signals cease to operate because of:
- (i) a power failure occurring; or
- (ii) the signals being switched off temporarily with the approval of the road controlling authority; or
(b) a traffic signal controller detects non-compliance with:
- (i) subclause 6.4(4) and only one full operating signal display remains functioning for that approach; or
- (ii) subclause 6.4(5), 6.4(6) or 6.4(7).

Flashing yellow displays for advance warning traffic signals

6.5(5) A road controlling authority may install advance-warning traffic signals when queues of traffic regularly occur or there are traffic signals in close proximity, and:

(a) the existing road alignment does not provide sufficient safe stopping distance of the queue or traffic signals and cannot reasonably be altered to overcome the deficiency; and
(b) the road controlling authority has considered the use of advance-warning signs and considers that advance-warning traffic signals are more appropriate.

6.5(6) Advance-warning traffic signals must comprise two yellow disc signals that comply with the specifications in Schedule 3 and that flash alternately at approximately one Hertz with approximately equal on- and off-times.

6.5(7) Advance-warning traffic signals must flash only when:

(a) a queue has been detected that requires that approaching drivers be informed; or
(b) the yellow or red signal is displayed on the traffic signals installed in close proximity.

6.5(8) A road controlling authority must install a warning sign and one of the accompanying supplementary warning signs in Schedule 1 in conjunction with advance-warning traffic signals.

6.5(9) When providing advance-warning traffic signals, a road controlling authority must install the signals:

(a) on the left-hand side of the road (except if they would not be visible to approaching road users, then they may be installed on the right-hand side of the road); and
(b) so that the signals:
- (i) face road users approaching the signals; and
- (ii) are visible to approaching road users.

6.5(10) A road controlling authority may install additional advance-warning traffic signals to increase the effectiveness of the advance-warning traffic signals.

Flashing red displays for level crossings

6.5(11) Traffic signals at a level crossing must comprise two red disc signals mounted horizontally that flash alternately.

6.5(12) While the signals in 6.5(11) are flashing, they may be supplemented with an audible warning device as an additional warning to road users not to enter the controlled area.

Flashing red displays for special situations and emergency vehicle access

6.5(13) Signals for controlling traffic in special situations or at emergency vehicle access points must comprise:

(a) two red disc signals mounted horizontally or vertically; or
(b) two red disc signals mounted horizontally and placed immediately above a yellow disc signal.

6.5(14) The signals in 6.5(13)(b) must operate in the following sequence:

(a) a steady yellow disc signal that must be displayed for at least three seconds and for no longer than six seconds;
(b) two red disc signals that must flash alternately and, after the minimum time consistent with safe operation, a blank display.

6.6 Pedestrian displays

6.6(1) A road controlling authority may install pedestrian traffic signals only in conjunction with steady vehicle displays.

6.6(2) If providing pedestrian traffic signals, a road controlling authority must install the signals in a position on a roadway under its control so that the signals clearly indicate to pedestrians when they may enter the roadway.

6.6(3) Pedestrian traffic signals must comprise the following:

(a) a green walking human figure signal; and
(b) a red standing human figure signal placed immediately above the green human figure signal.

6.6(4) Pedestrian signals must operate in the following sequence:

(a) a steady green walking human figure symbol to indicate the period during which a pedestrian is allowed to enter a roadway followed by a flashing red standing human figure symbol to indicate the period during which a pedestrian is expected to finish crossing a roadway;
(b) either the display at (a) or a steady red standing human figure, displayed for at least two seconds, to indicate when a pedestrian must not enter a roadway followed by;
- (i) the display at (a); or
- (ii) a blank display followed by:
  - (A) the display at (a); or
  - (B) a steady red standing human symbol followed by the display at (a).

Section 7 Channelling traffic

7.1 Provision of traffic control devices for channelling traffic

7.1(1) A road controlling authority may provide traffic control devices to channel traffic for the purposes of improving traffic safety and the efficiency of traffic movement.

7.1(2) Channelling traffic is achieved by using traffic control devices, separately or in combination, to define parts of a roadway that are generally available to road users.

7.1(3) Traffic control devices that are used to channel traffic include:

(a) centre-lines;
(b) no-passing lines;
(c) flush medians;
(d) edgelines;
(e) shoulder markings;
(f) traffic islands either raised above, or flush with, the road surface;
(g) turn bays;
(h) kerbs, slow points, chicanes and other structures;
(i) delineators;
(j) lane lines;
(k) variable lane control signs.

7.2 Centre-lines

7.2(1) A road controlling authority may mark a centre-line on a roadway that is 5.1 m or more in width.

7.2(2) A centre-line must be marked with:

(a) a white broken or continuous single line that is not less than 100 mm wide; or
(b) a regular pattern of raised white pavement markers; or
(c) a no-passing line in one of the forms described in 7.3; or
(d) a continuous white line bounding a flush median as described in 7.4.

7.2(3) On a two-way roadway that is marked in three or more lanes (not including cycle lanes), the two directions of traffic must, as appropriate to the number of lanes, the speed limit and the anticipated volume of traffic, be separated or indicated by the following:

(a) a barrier; or
(b) a median; or
(c) a centre-line, which must be defined by marking:
- (i) a white, continuous line distinguishable from the lines marking the lanes; or
- (ii) a no-passing line in one of the forms described in 7.3; or
- (iii) a flush median described in 7.4; or
(d) the use of variable lane control signs installed in accordance with 7.13.

7.3 No-passing lines

7.3(1) A road controlling authority may mark a no-passing line on a section of roadway if the road controlling authority considers that there is a risk to safety from vehicles that, when passing other vehicles (other than stationary vehicles or cycles) that are moving in the same direction, intrude into a lane that is being used by traffic travelling in the opposite direction.

7.3(2) A no-passing line applies to traffic that normally travels to the left of the line and must consist of a continuous yellow line not less than 100 mm wide that is marked approximately 100 mm to the left of either:

(a) another continuous yellow line; or
(b) a broken or continuous white line in the form described in 7.2(2)(a); or
(c) a dashed yellow line in the form described in 7.3(3); or
(d) a regular pattern of raised white or yellow pavement markers.

7.3(3) If practicable, a no-passing line must be preceded by a line not less than 100 mm wide and consisting of a series of yellow dashes, each of which is not longer than 15 m, to inform drivers of the existence of the no-passing line ahead.

7.4 Flush medians

7.4(1) A road controlling authority may mark a flush median on a roadway if the road controlling authority considers there would be safety and efficiency benefits in:

(a) separating turning traffic and through traffic; or
(b) providing pedestrians with a place to pause while crossing a road; or
(c) providing greater separation between traffic travelling in opposite directions; or
(d) limiting lane widths to reduce traffic speed.

7.4(2) A flush median must comprise an area marked by white diagonal lines that are painted along the middle of the roadway and are bounded by approximately parallel, longitudinal white lines.

7.5 Edgelines

7.5(1) If a road controlling authority considers it is desirable, it may mark an edgeline at or near the far left or far right side of the roadway to define an area of roadway for use by vehicles.

7.5(2) An edgeline must be marked or defined by one or more of the following:

(a) a broken or continuous white line; or
(b) a kerb.

7.6 Shoulder markings

7.6(1) A road controlling authority may mark white diagonal shoulder markings on a road if the road controlling authority considers it is desirable to differentiate the shoulder from the roadway.

7.6(2) A road controlling authority must mark a sealed shoulder in the form described in 7.6(1) if it is:

(a) 2.5 m wide or more, exclusive of any marked parking area; and
(b) being used, or is likely to be used, by motor vehicles as a lane.

7.7 Traffic islands

7.7(1) A road controlling authority may provide a traffic island to:

(a) channel traffic;
(b) provide protection for pedestrians, cyclists or other road users crossing a road;
(c) give advance warning of an intersection to approaching traffic;
(d) provide for, and protect, traffic control devices;
(e) prevent undesirable or unnecessary traffic movements.

Raised traffic islands

7.7(2) When providing a raised traffic island, a road controlling authority must:

(a) install, on the traffic island, reflectorised traffic signs complying with section 4 that the road controlling authority considers are necessary to guide drivers around the traffic island; and
(b) place markings or delineators on the roadway beside the traffic island to inform drivers of the presence and extent of the traffic island.

7.7(3) A raised traffic island must not have permanent growth, a traffic control device or other object placed on it (unless the device or object is protected) that presents a hazard to road users.

Flush traffic islands

7.7(4) A flush traffic island must have:

(a) its area defined by continuous white lines; and
(b) a pattern of white diagonal lines or chevron stripes in the area within the edgelines, if the size of the island allows or requires this.

7.8 Turn bays

7.8(1) A road controlling authority may mark a turn bay on a roadway if the road controlling authority considers that there would be safety or efficiency benefits in separating turning traffic from through traffic.

7.8(2) A right-turn bay, which may incorporate white diagonal markings, must be bounded by:

(a) a centre-line to the right, in the form described in 7.2(2); and
(b) a dashed or continuous line to the left.

7.8(3) A left-turn bay may be bounded by:

(a) a lane line to the right, in a form described in 7.11(b)(i); and
(b) a dashed or continuous white line to the left.

7.9 Kerbs, slow points, chicanes and other structures

7.9(1) A road controlling authority may provide a traffic control device, including a kerb, road hump, chicane, or slow point, on or adjacent to a road, as appropriate, to:

(a) channel traffic movement; or
(b) restrict the speed of traffic; or
(c) discourage the use of the road by through vehicles in general or by vehicles of an inappropriate design or size, and for which alternative routes are available; or
(d) provide a continuation of a pedestrian or cycle route and alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians or cyclists.

7.9(2) A road controlling authority may use signs, markings or delineators in conjunction with a structure in 7.9(1).

7.9(3) A road hump, chicane, slow point or other channelling device, on or adjacent to a road, that is intended to reduce the travelling speed of vehicles must be illuminated or have reflective delineators or reflective signs installed so that the structure is visible.

7.9(4) Permanent growth, or a traffic control device or other object placed on a structure in 7.9(1), must not impair visibility.

7.10 Delineators

7.10(1) A road controlling authority may use delineators to regulate, warn or advise traffic.

7.10(2) Delineators have the following functions:

(a) ‘regulatory’, that is, they instruct road users by requiring or prohibiting specified actions in using a roadway, when used:
- (i) to supplement, or as a substitute for, markings; or
- (ii) to override markings for the purposes of temporary traffic management;
(b) ‘warning’, that is, they inform road users of hazards on a roadway or give advance notice of features on or near the roadway;
(c) ‘advisory’, that is, they provide road users with information and guidance in using a road more effectively and safely.

7.10(3) Delineators, if used to provide road users with an indication of the travel path to follow, must be installed:

(a) at regular intervals on substantially straight sections of roadway; and
(b) at intervals based on the degree of curvature or lateral movement where there are curves or changes in direction.

7.11 Lane lines

A lane line may be:

(a) marked or indicated by one or more traffic control devices in 7.1(3)(a) to (i); or
(b) marked with:
- (i) a white broken or continuous single line that is not less than 100 mm wide; or
- (ii) a regular pattern of raised white pavement markers.

7.12 Lanes

7.12(1) A lane, including a cycle lane, may be indicated to road users by one or more traffic control devices used singly or in combination, including:

(a) traffic control devices in 7.1(3); or
(b) other markings that comply with section 5.

7.12(2) If the use of a lane is restricted to a specific class or classes of vehicle, the traffic control devices that indicate the restriction must comply with section 11.

7.12(3) A lane that may be used only by road users who are travelling straight ahead or turning in a specific direction must be clearly indicated by:

(a) at least one lane-usage arrow marked within the lane that complies with the relevant specifications in Schedule 2; or
(b) at least one sign provided above the lane that complies with the relevant requirements in Schedule 1.

7.13 Variable lane control signs

7.13(1) The use of a lane may be controlled by means of variable lane control signs that are installed above the lane and that display:

(a) a red diagonal cross, indicating that the lane is not available to road users that are travelling in the direction facing the sign; or
(b) a green downward-facing arrow, indicating that the lane may be used by road users that are travelling in the direction facing the sign; or
(c) a yellow diagonal arrow facing to the bottom left or right corner of the sign, indicating that road users must, as soon as practicable, move to the adjacent lane to the left or right; or
(d) if 7.13(7) applies, a blank display indicating to road users that the lane is available for use.

7.13(2) The symbols in 7.13(1) must comply with the relevant requirements in Schedule 1.

7.13(3) If a lane has road users travelling in opposite directions at different times, only the following combinations of symbols may be displayed:

(a) a green downward-facing arrow displayed for one direction with a red diagonal cross displayed for the opposite direction;
(b) a yellow diagonal arrow displayed for one direction with a red diagonal cross displayed for the opposite direction;
(c) a red diagonal cross displayed in both directions.

7.13(4) If the use of a lane is changed so as to reverse the direction in which road users must travel, the symbols displayed must have the following sequence:

(a) a green downward-facing arrow displayed for one direction with a red diagonal cross displayed for the opposite direction, followed by either:
- (i) a diagonal yellow arrow displayed for one direction with a red diagonal cross displayed for the opposite direction followed by a red diagonal cross displayed for both directions; or
- (ii) a red diagonal cross displayed in both directions;
(b) a red diagonal cross displayed for one direction with a green downward-facing arrow displayed for the opposite direction, in the reverse order from that specified in (a).

7.13(5) A red diagonal cross specified in 7.13(4)(a)(i) or (ii) that is displayed concurrently for both directions must operate for a period that allows safe clearance of traffic from the lane.

7.13(6) If the use of a lane is changed to exclude road users travelling in one direction for a period, after which the lane reopens for road users travelling in the same direction, the symbols displayed must comply with the sequence in 7.13(4)(a)(i) or (ii), followed by a green downward-facing arrow displayed for the one direction with a red diagonal cross displayed for the opposite direction.

7.13(7) If lanes used for road users that are travelling in opposite directions are separated by physical barriers:

(a) the signs above each lane may be a green downward-facing arrow, a yellow diagonal arrow, a diagonal red cross or a blank display facing road users travelling in that lane; and
(b) symbols do not have to be displayed for road users travelling in the opposite direction.

7.13(8) If 7.13(7) applies, the symbols displayed must comply with either of the following sequences:

(a) a green downward-facing arrow or a blank display, followed by a diagonal yellow arrow, followed by either:
- (i) a diagonal red cross followed by a green downward-facing arrow; or
- (ii) a green downward-facing arrow; or
(b) a blank display followed by a diagonal yellow arrow, followed by either:
- (i) a red diagonal cross, followed by a blank display; or
- (ii) a blank display.

Section 8 Pedestrian crossings, school crossing points, school patrols and other pedestrian facilities

8.1 Provision of traffic control devices for pedestrians

8.1(1) A road controlling authority must use one or more of the following means of controlling traffic when requiring drivers to stop their vehicle while pedestrians cross a roadway:

(a) providing a pedestrian crossing;
(b) authorising a school patrol, and:
- (i) specifying the pedestrian crossing at which it may operate; or
- (ii) providing a school crossing point at which the school patrol operates;
(c) providing pedestrian traffic signals.

8.1(2) A road controlling authority may use one or more of the following means of assisting pedestrians to cross a roadway but which, unless installed in conjunction with one of the devices described in 8.1(1), does not require a driver to stop their vehicle while a pedestrian crosses the roadway:

(a) school wardens;
(b) devices, including:
- (i) signs;
- (ii) markings, including flush medians;
- (iii) surface texture or raised platforms;
- (iv) kerb extensions or traffic islands.

8.2 Pedestrian crossings

8.2(1) A road controlling authority may, except for areas controlled by traffic signals, mark a pedestrian crossing on a road for which a speed limit of 50 km/h or less is set.

8.2(2) A road controlling authority may mark a pedestrian crossing on a road for which a speed limit of more than 50 km/h is set if it has obtained the approval of the Director and complies with any conditions specified in the approval.

8.2(3) A pedestrian crossing must be marked in reflectorised white and as specified in Schedule 2.

8.2(4) A pedestrian crossing that was installed before the commencement of this rule that does not comply with 8.2(3) must be marked in reflectorised white as specified in Schedule 2 by 30 June 2007.

8.2(5) A pedestrian crossing must not, by 30 June 2006, exceed 15 m from one side of the roadway to the other side unless it is:

(a) interrupted by one or more traffic islands to form two or more pedestrian crossings; or
(b) controlled by traffic signals.

8.2(6) Markings for a pedestrian crossing must be placed, as far as practicable, either at right angles to the middle line of the roadway or so as to provide the most convenient route for pedestrians.

8.2(7) A pedestrian crossing must be placed so that:

(a) it is visible to a driver approaching the crossing from any direction; and
(b) the length of the crossing is unobstructed by any permanent growth, construction or physical feature.

Lighting pedestrian crossings

8.2(8) A pedestrian crossing, other than a pedestrian crossing that in the opinion of the road controlling authority will not generally be used at night, must be kept illuminated when street lights are operating so that the crossing markings and a pedestrian on the crossing are visible.

Poles, markings and other indicators of pedestrian crossings

8.2(9) A road controlling authority must install, within 2 m from each end of a pedestrian crossing and on a traffic island that separates two pedestrian crossings, a pole that is:

(a) 75 mm or more in width and 2 m or more in height; and
(b) marked with alternate parallel bands of black and white, which may be reflectorised, each of which is approximately 300 mm wide.

8.2(10) A road controlling authority must place on every pole in 8.2(9) either:

(a) an internally illuminated amber globe (that may flash at between 40 to 60 flashes each minute) that is 300 mm or more in diameter; or
(b) a fluorescent, reflectorised orange sign in the form of a disk that is 300 mm or more in diameter.

8.2(11) To inform approaching traffic of the presence of a pedestrian crossing, a road controlling authority, on each approach to the pedestrian crossing:

(a) must place a pedestrian crossing warning sign before the pedestrian crossing; and
(b) must, by 30 June 2006, mark a limit line that consists of a white line that is not less than 300 mm wide and not less than 5 m from the pedestrian crossing; and
(c) may mark a pedestrian crossing warning marking in the form of a diamond on the road surface.

8.3 School patrols

8.3(1) A road controlling authority may, in writing, authorise the Board of Trustees of a school to appoint persons as members of school patrols at specified school crossing points or pedestrian crossings to assist, direct and supervise children on their way to or from school.

8.3(2) When appointing members of school patrols the Board of Trustees:

(a) for a school crossing point, must appoint adults to supervise the school patrol and school crossing point; and
(b) for a marked pedestrian crossing, may appoint adults to supervise the school patrol and pedestrian crossing.

8.3(3) A road controlling authority may, at any time, by notice in writing, withdraw an authorisation it has given under 8.3(1).

8.3(4) The Director may require that a road controlling authority withdraw an authorisation given under 8.3(1).

8.3(5) The withdrawal of an authorisation under 8.3(3) or 8.3(4) takes effect when the road controlling authority or the Director notifies the Board of Trustees, in writing, of the withdrawal.

8.3(6) A member of a school patrol must wear, as appropriate, a raincoat or vest that identifies them clearly and enables them to be visible to approaching drivers.

8.3(7) A member of a school patrol must use a ‘School Patrol’ sign that complies with Schedule 1 mounted on a white or black and white striped pole at least 35 mm in diameter and not less than 1.5 m in length.

Functions and duties of school patrols

8.3(8) A school patrol must control the approach of the driver of a vehicle to a pedestrian crossing or school crossing point by extending into the roadway, and keeping extended, the ‘School Patrol’ sign, so as to display its wording clearly to the driver and, at the same time, may direct pedestrians to enter the crossing.

8.3(9) A school patrol must not extend the ‘School Patrol’ sign into the roadway to stop a vehicle except during a pause in the flow of traffic, having regard to the number of vehicles approaching the crossing.

8.4 School crossing points

8.4(1) A road controlling authority may provide a school crossing point on a road for which a speed limit of 50 km/h or less is set.

8.4(2) A road controlling authority may provide a school crossing point on a road for which a speed limit of more than 50 km/h is set if it has obtained the approval of the Director and complies with the conditions of the approval.

8.4(3) Before establishing a school crossing point, a road controlling authority must obtain the agreement of the Board of Trustees of each school that is served by the school crossing point.

8.4(4) A school crossing point must be placed so that:

(a) it, and the school patrol when operating, is visible to a driver approaching the crossing point from any direction; and
(b) the length of the crossing is not obstructed by any construction, physical feature or permanent growth.

8.4(5) A road controlling authority must indicate the presence and position of a school crossing point by marking or installing in accordance with the relevant requirements of Schedule 2:

(a) a white, reflectorised limit line on each approach; and
(b) at each end of the crossing point, a permanent white support post or pole; and
(c) when a school patrol is operating:
- (i) at least one ‘Children’ flag sign installed adjacent to each vehicle limit line on each approach to the crossing point; and
- (ii) a ‘School Patrol’ sign at each end of the crossing point; and
(d) a ‘Children’ sign, with a ‘School’ supplementary sign, permanently mounted on either side of the road facing approaching traffic.

8.4(6) Markings for a school crossing point must be placed, as far as practicable, either at right angles to the middle line of the roadway or so as to provide the most convenient route for pedestrians.

8.4(7) All ‘School Patrol’ signs and ‘Children’ flag signs must be removed from a school crossing point when a school patrol is not operating.

8.5 Pedestrian traffic signals

8.5(1) A road controlling authority may install pedestrian traffic signals, at an intersection controlled by traffic signals, to indicate to pedestrians when they may enter a roadway.

8.5(2) If 8.5(1) applies, markings must be installed to guide the movement of pedestrians.

8.5(3) A road controlling authority may install pedestrian traffic signals complying with section 6 to control the movement of pedestrians at locations other than intersections.

8.6 Provision and maintenance of pedestrian crossings and school crossing points

A pedestrian crossing or school crossing point on a roadway may be provided and maintained only by the road controlling authority that controls that roadway.

8.7 Removal of pedestrian crossings and indications of pedestrian crossings

8.7(1) The Director may, at any time by notice in writing to a road controlling authority, require the road controlling authority to:

(a) remove a pedestrian crossing; or
(b) remove, or refrain from providing, additional indication of the presence or position of a pedestrian crossing, whether or not the crossing is approved under this rule.

8.7(2) On receiving a notice under 8.7(1), the road controlling authority must:

(a) immediately remove from the area of the pedestrian crossing all markings and other indications of a crossing; or
(b) if relevant, immediately remove, and subsequently refrain from providing, the additional indicators referred to in the notice.

8.8 Other pedestrian facilities

School wardens

8.8(1) A Board of Trustees of a school may appoint a person as a school warden to assist, direct and supervise children at a point at which they may cross the road on their way to and from school.

8.8(2) A Board of Trustees must advise the road controlling authority before establishing a school warden system.

8.8(3) A school warden must wear, as appropriate, a raincoat or vest that identifies them clearly and enables them to be visible to approaching drivers.

Crossing places

8.8(4) A road controlling authority may provide signs, markings, surface texture or raised platforms or kerb extensions and traffic islands or other techniques to guide a pedestrian to a place at which to cross a roadway.

8.8(5) If a road controlling authority installs a device in 8.8(4) that does not require a driver to stop their vehicle to allow a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the road controlling authority must ensure that the device conveys a clear and consistent message to road users.

Section 9 Level crossings

9.1 Interpretation

In this section, ‘public road’ has the same meaning as the definition of ‘road’ in section 315 of the Local Government Act 1974.

9.2 Traffic control devices at level crossings

9.2(1) To inform road users of a level crossing and to promote safe responses from road users approaching and crossing the level crossing, a road controlling authority:

(a) must install warning signs on a public road in advance of the level crossing; and
(b) may install warning signs on any other road in advance of a level crossing; and
(c) may provide other traffic control devices in advance of the level crossing.

9.2(2) A rail access provider, after consultation with the road controlling authority, may install warning signs and other appropriate traffic control devices at a level crossing to promote safe responses from road users at the level crossing.

9.3 Marking level crossings

9.3(1) Except if the road surface makes this impracticable, a road controlling authority must mark on a public road, and may mark on any other road, on each lane approaching a level crossing, the word ‘RAIL’ and the capital letter ‘X’ when:

(a) the road approaching the level crossing has a speed limit of 70 km/h or more; or
(b) traffic approaches the level crossing in more than one lane.

9.3(2) The road markings in 9.3(1) must be reflectorised white.

9.3(3) On the approaches to a level crossing to which neither 9.3(1)(a) nor 9.3(1)(b) applies, the road controlling authority may, if it considers that additional indication to road users is desirable, place on the road surface the markings in 9.3(1) in accordance with 9.3(2).

9.3(4) A rail access provider may mark the road surface of a level crossing with cross-hatching to indicate the area that a road user must not enter when the road user’s intended passage through that area is blocked by traffic.

9.3(5) An area in 9.3(4) must be marked using yellow reflectorised material and comply with Schedule 2.

9.4 Traffic signs, traffic signals and limit lines at level crossings

9.4(1) A rail access provider may provide, at a level crossing:

(a) a give-way sign, stop sign, barrier arms or flashing traffic signals; and
(b) a crossbuck sign; and
(c) when there is more than one railway track, a ‘(number of)’ tracks sign.

9.4(2) If one of the traffic control devices in 9.4(1)(a) is installed, a rail access provider must, except if the road surface makes this impracticable, mark a limit line at least 300 mm wide at a level crossing, which:

(a) must be reflectorised yellow, if the level crossing is controlled by a stop sign; or
(b) must be reflectorised white, if the level crossing is controlled by a give-way sign or by a flashing traffic signal.

9.4(3) A rail access provider may install, at a level crossing, poles that have reflectorised red and white alternate bands that are at least 300 mm wide.

9.4(4) If a level crossing is controlled by a stop sign, the road controlling authority must mark, not more than 10 m before the limit line, the word ‘stop’ in capital letters at least 2 m high, unless the road surface makes this impracticable.

9.4(5) If a level crossing is controlled by a give-way sign, the road controlling authority must, unless the road surface makes this impracticable, mark, not more than 20 m before the limit line, a triangular give-way symbol that complies with Schedule 2.

9.4(6) Instead of a triangular symbol in 9.4(5), a roadway that, before the commencement of this rule, was marked by the word ‘way’ preceded by the word ‘give’, in capital letters at least 2 m high, may continue to be marked in that way until the words are either permanently removed or overlaid, after which the triangular give-way symbol must be marked.

9.4(7) If a level crossing is controlled by a stop sign or give-way sign, a rail access provider may install the following combination of signs on the same pole:

(a) a give-way or stop sign; and
(b) a crossbuck sign; and
(c) if appropriate, a ‘Look For Trains’ sign or a ‘(number of)’ tracks sign, or both.

9.4(8) If a level crossing is controlled by traffic signals, a rail access provider may install the following signs on the poles supporting the traffic signals:

(a) a crossbuck sign; and
(b) if appropriate, a ‘Stop On Red’ sign or a ‘(number of)’ tracks sign, or both.

9.4(9) If a level crossing is controlled by traffic signals, a rail access provider may install barrier arms on the poles supporting the traffic signals, which must:

(a) be lowered over the approach to the level crossing when movement by road traffic is prohibited; and
(b) consist of red and white alternate bands that comply with Schedule 2 and that, by 30 June 2006, must be reflectorised.

9.5 Exception in relation to requirements for vehicles to stop at specified level crossings

9.5(1) A road controlling authority may, in compliance with 9.5 of the Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004, install an ‘Exempt’ sign as a supplementary sign to each ‘Level Crossing’ (symbolic train) warning sign installed in advance of the level crossing, if satisfied that:

(a) rail vehicles are piloted across the level crossing at a speed of less than 15 km/h; and
(b) the level crossing does not have stop signs installed, and the visibility in either direction along the railway line from a point 37 m in advance of the limit line is 33 m or more; and
(c) the road is used by scheduled passenger service vehicles or is on a school bus route; and
(d) the rail access provider has approved the proposed exception.

9.5(2) If any of the conditions in 9.5(1)(a) to (d) does not apply, but the road controlling authority considers that an ‘Exempt’ sign is justified, the road controlling authority must obtain the approval of the Director for its installation.

Section 10 Intersections

10.1 Intersections to be controlled

An intersection that has four or more approaching roadways must be controlled by:

(a) stop or give-way signs; or
(b) a roundabout; or
(c) traffic signals.

10.2 Intersections controlled by stop signs

If an intersection is controlled by a stop sign, the sign must be installed in accordance with section 4 and, unless the road surface makes this impracticable, the following must be marked on the roadway:

(a) a limit line that consists of a yellow line that is not less than 300 mm wide; and
(b) not more than 10 m before the limit line, the word ‘stop’ in white capital letters at least 2 m high.

10.3 Intersections controlled by give-way signs

10.3(1) If an intersection is controlled by a give-way sign, the sign must be installed in accordance with section 4 and, unless the road surface makes this impracticable, the following must be marked on the roadway:

(a) a limit line that consists of a white line that is not less than 300 mm wide; and
(b) not more than 20 m before the limit line, a triangular give-way symbol that complies with Schedule 2.

10.3(2) Instead of a triangular give-way symbol in 10.3(1)(b), a roadway that, before the commencement of this rule, was marked by the word ‘way’ preceded by the word ‘give’, in white capital letters at least 2 m high, may continue to be marked in that way until the words are either permanently removed or overlaid, after which the triangular give-way symbol must be marked.

10.4 Intersections controlled by roundabouts

10.4(1) If an intersection is controlled by a roundabout, each entry to the roundabout must:

(a) be controlled by a ‘Roundabout-Give-Way’ sign that complies with Schedule 1; and
(b) have a limit line that consists of a white line that is not less than 300 mm wide; and
(c) have marked on the roadway not more than 20 m before the limit line, a triangular give-way symbol that complies with Schedule 2.

10.4(2) Instead of a ‘Roundabout-Give-Way’ sign in 10.4(1)(a), each entry to a roundabout may be controlled by a give-way sign preceded by a ‘Roundabout Ahead’ sign until 31 December 2007.

10.4(3) Instead of a triangular give-way symbol in 10.4(1)(c), a roadway that, before the commencement of this rule, was marked by the word ‘way’ preceded by the word ‘give’, in white capital letters at least 2 m high, may continue to be marked in that way until the words are either permanently removed or overlaid, after which the triangular give-way symbol must be marked.

10.4(4) If more than one lane for motor vehicles enters a roundabout from any approach, a road controlling authority must mark arrows on each approach lane to direct drivers into the correct lane.

10.4(5) If a section of the roadway around a roundabout, or an exit from that section of roadway, has more than one lane for motor vehicles, a road controlling authority must, by 30 June 2006, mark lane lines to direct the flow of traffic.

10.5 Intersections controlled by traffic signals

10.5(1) A road controlling authority must ensure that the form, dimensions, symbols displayed, operation and performance of traffic signals installed at an intersection comply with section 6.

10.5(2) A road controlling authority may install one or more of the following traffic signs on a pole supporting a traffic signal at an intersection:

(a) a ‘Keep Left’ sign;
(b) a ‘Turning Traffic Give-Way To Pedestrians’ sign;
(c) a ‘Turn Left At Any Time With Care’ sign;
(d) a sign prohibiting, absolutely or conditionally, pedestrians, vehicles or classes of vehicle from moving in a specific direction;
(e) a sign requiring, absolutely or conditionally, pedestrians, vehicles or classes of vehicle to move in a specific direction;
(f) a sign or notice directed solely towards pedestrians and not generally visible to approaching vehicles, warning or advising pedestrians on the use of the traffic signals or of the controlled area;
(g) a street name sign.

10.6 ‘Keep Clear’ zone at intersections

10.6(1) A road controlling authority may mark the road surface of an intersection, or a place used as a vehicle entrance or exit, to indicate the area that a road user must not enter when the road user’s intended passage through that area is blocked by traffic.

10.6(2) An area in 10.6(1) must be marked, in compliance with Schedule 2, by means of either:

(a) yellow reflectorised material in the form of diagonal cross-hatched markings; or
(b) the words ‘keep clear’ marked between lines that define the area.

Section 11 Traffic control devices for special classes of vehicle and road user

11.1 Provision of signs and markings

A road controlling authority that is providing a special route or setting aside a specific area of roadway for a class or classes of road user that is intended to impose restrictions on other road users must provide signs and markings as specified in 11.2, 11.3 or 11.4.

11.2 Special vehicle lanes

11.2(1) If defining a part of a road as a special vehicle lane, a road controlling authority must, at the start of the special vehicle lane and at the point at which the lane starts again after each intersection:

(a) mark on the road surface a white symbol, that complies with Schedule 2, defining the class or classes of vehicle for which the lane has been reserved; and
(b) if for other than a 24-hour restriction, install a special vehicle lane sign that complies with Schedule 1:
- (i) defining the class or classes of vehicle for which the lane has been reserved; and
- (ii) stating the periods for which the reservation applies.

11.2(2) A road controlling authority may provide the following traffic control devices to discourage use of a special vehicle lane by other vehicles, or to draw attention to the likely presence of vehicles entitled to the use of the lane:

(a) additional white special vehicle lane symbols described in 11.2(1)(a) or signs described in 11.2(1)(b) along the length of the lane; or
(b) if for a 24-hour restriction, special vehicle lane signs; or
(c) a surface treatment that provides a contrasting colour or texture to that of adjacent lanes used by other vehicles:
- (i) at locations along the length of the lane; or
- (ii) along the length of the lane.

11.3 Light-rail vehicle facilities

Lanes

11.3(1) If a light-rail vehicle track is within, and runs parallel to, a roadway, a road controlling authority may:

(a) separate the track from other traffic by installing a traffic island, kerbs or other physical means of channelling traffic; or
(b) define a special vehicle lane for light-rail vehicles by marking symbols or words defining the class and, where appropriate, installing signs conforming with 11.2(1)(b).

Safety zone

11.3(2) At a designated light-rail vehicle stop, a road controlling authority may provide a safety zone to warn drivers of, and provide some protection for, passengers entering or leaving the light-rail vehicle.

11.4 Cycle facilities

Paths shared by pedestrians and cycles

11.4(1) For a path shared by pedestrians and cyclists, a road controlling authority:

(a) must install an appropriate sign or combination of signs, complying with Schedule 1:
- (i) at the start of the shared path; and
- (ii) at the point at which the path starts again after it intersects a roadway; and
(b) may install signs at other intervals along the shared path.

11.4(2) If separate sides of a path are reserved for cyclists and pedestrians, or for path users travelling in different directions, a road controlling authority:

(a) must provide signs and appropriate markings:
- (i) at the start of the path; and
- (ii) at the point at which the path starts again after it intersects a roadway or another pathway; and
(b) may mark cycle and pedestrian symbols at other intervals along the path.

Cycle and pedestrian signs

11.4(3) A road controlling authority may install on the same pole a combination of signs that relate to cyclists and to pedestrians.

Cycle parking on footpaths or cycle paths

11.4(4) A road controlling authority may install facilities for the parking, standing or storage of cycles on a footpath, footway or cycle path.

Control where a cycle path route crosses a roadway

11.4(5) When a cycle path crosses a roadway, a road controlling authority may, as appropriate, control either the movement of cycles along the cycle path or traffic along the roadway by means of stop or give-way signs or by the installation of traffic signals, in the same manner as described in section 10.5 for an intersection.

11.5 Special motor vehicle facilities

Motorways

11.5(1) A road controlling authority that designates a road as a motorway under section 73 of the Transit New Zealand Act 1989 must erect appropriate motorway signs, described in Schedule 1, that clearly advises road users of the extent of the motorway designation.

Weight and dimension restrictions

11.5(2) If a road controlling authority restricts the use of a road,

Land Transport Rule

Traffic Control Devices 2004

Rule 54002

Contents

Objective of the rule