How many speed cameras are there in New Zealand?

There are currently 99 fixed speed camera locations across New Zealand, including spot speed cameras, red light cameras, and average speed cameras.

Where does this speed camera data come from?

All speed camera location data is sourced directly from Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), the official government agency responsible for road safety in New Zealand.

How often is the camera data updated?

The speed camera data is automatically updated weekly from the official NZTA source to ensure accuracy and completeness.

What types of speed cameras are shown on the map?

The map shows three types of cameras: Spot Speed cameras (measure instantaneous speed), Red Light cameras (detect vehicles running red lights), and Average Speed cameras (calculate average speed over a distance).

Is this map free to use?

Yes, NZ Speed Camera Map is completely free to use. No registration or payment is required.

How Speed Cameras Work in New Zealand - Complete Explanation

Ever wondered how speed cameras actually work? This guide explains the technology behind New Zealand's fixed safety camera network.

Types of Speed Cameras in NZ

New Zealand uses three types of fixed safety cameras, each with different technology:

1. Spot Speed Cameras

How They Work

Fixed spot speed cameras measure your speed at a single point using radar technology (K-band radar at 24.0-24.1 GHz).

The Process:

Radar detects an approaching vehicle and measures its speed
If speed exceeds the limit, a camera captures the image
The image records the vehicle's number plate and timestamp
A flash unit illuminates the scene for night-time photography

Where You'll Find Them

Spot speed cameras are typically located on:

State highways
High-crash areas
School zones
Urban arterial roads

2. Red Light Cameras

How They Work

Red light cameras use induction loops buried in the road surface.

The Process:

Induction loops detect when vehicles cross the stop line after the light turns red
Camera captures images of the vehicle (typically two photos)
Evidence is reviewed before infringement notices are sent

Red Light Detection

Red light cameras use induction loops buried in the road to detect when vehicles cross the stop line. While some newer cameras have speed detection capability, NZTA currently uses them for red light enforcement only.

3. Average Speed Cameras

How They Work

Also called point-to-point cameras, these work in pairs or groups.

The Process:

Camera A records your vehicle and timestamp at the first point
Camera B records at the second point
System calculates average speed based on distance and time
If average exceeds the limit, an infringement is issued

Why They're Effective

You cannot simply slow down at the camera location. Your average speed over the entire distance must be within the limit.

Camera Accuracy

All speed cameras in New Zealand are:

Regularly calibrated and tested
Subject to strict accuracy standards
Operated by NZTA (as of July 2025)

Speed Tolerance

While there is an operational tolerance, you should always aim to drive at or below the posted limit. The tolerance is not publicly disclosed and should not be relied upon.

Why Speed Cameras Matter

Speed cameras are proven to reduce crashes and save lives:

International studies show crash reductions ranging from 8-50% at camera sites
Research indicates each 1 km/h speed reduction decreases crash risk by 2-4% (depending on road type)
NZTA estimates average speed cameras could reduce deaths and serious injuries by around 48% on suitable roads
Fixed cameras provide 24/7 enforcement

Find Camera Locations

View all speed cameras on our interactive map or explore by region.

This content has been fact-checked against official sources but may contain inaccuracies. This is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always follow posted speed limits.