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Average Speed Cameras in New Zealand: How Point-to-Point Enforcement Works

2 min readBy NZ Speed Camera Map
average speedpoint-to-pointtechnologyhow it works

Average speed cameras are becoming more common on New Zealand roads. Here's what you need to know about this enforcement technology.

What Are Average Speed Cameras?

Average speed cameras, also known as point-to-point cameras, measure your speed over a distance rather than at a single point.

How They Work

The Basic Concept

  1. Entry Point: A camera photographs your vehicle and records the time
  2. Exit Point: Another camera captures you further along the road
  3. Calculation: The system calculates your average speed using distance / time
  4. Assessment: If your average exceeds the limit, an infringement is issued

Example

If the cameras are 10 km apart and the speed limit is 100 km/h:

  • You should take at least 6 minutes to travel the distance
  • If you complete it in 5 minutes, your average was 120 km/h
  • An infringement notice would be issued

Why Average Speed Cameras?

Benefits

  • Enforce speed limits over longer distances
  • Cannot be defeated by slowing at camera points
  • Encourage consistent speed compliance
  • Proven to reduce crashes on monitored routes

Where They're Used

Average speed cameras are particularly effective on:

  • Highways and motorways
  • Construction zones
  • High-crash corridors
  • Routes with known speeding problems

Average Speed Camera Locations in NZ

View all average speed camera locations on our interactive map. Filter by "Average Speed" to see only these cameras.

Tips for Drivers

  1. Maintain consistent speed: The safest approach is staying at or below the limit
  2. Don't try to average out: Speeding then slowing is dangerous and may not work
  3. Watch for signs: Average speed zones are signposted
  4. Plan your journey: Allow enough time so you don't feel rushed

Common Misconceptions

"I can speed between cameras and slow down at the end"

This is dangerous and may not work. Focus on consistent safe driving.

"They only work in one direction"

Average speed cameras typically monitor both directions of travel.

"Changing lanes defeats the camera"

Modern systems track vehicles across lane changes.

Related Information


This content has been fact-checked against official sources but may contain inaccuracies. This is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Data updated weekly from Waka Kotahi NZTA.