In line with Waka Kotahi | NZTA’s national changes to temporary traffic management, Kawerau District Council is transitioning to a risk‑based approach by 1 July 2026 for all new contracts and 1 January 2027 for all existing contracts. By prioritising risk-based planning, we improve the safety of both road workers and road users. This approach aligns with Waka Kotahi ‘Road to Zero’ campaign, supporting safer roads for all.
The New Zealand Guide to Temporary Traffic Management (NZGTTM) has replaced the former Code of Practice for Temporary Traffic Management (CoPTTM). CoPTTM relied on a rule‑based system was inflexible and did not suit every situation.
NZGTTM is a significant step forward for New Zealand roads. The guide prioritises risk assessment and planning, ensuring that decisions about equipment, controls, and site layouts are tailored to actual hazards rather than predetermined templates. This guide better aligns with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), which requires that “everyone must have the best protection possible from workplace health and safety risks, as is reasonably practicable.”
Road Controlling Authorities (RCAs) (such as councils and Waka Kotahi) have long existed and held legal responsibility for managing and operating their road networks. RCAs are not a new concept introduced by NZGTTM; rather, their role has become more clearly defined under the new risk‑based system. RCAs continue to play a central part in ensuring Temporary Traffic Management (TTM) is safe, coordinated, and compliant with legislation.
The three Cs and RCA role
A key element of the HSWA is the requirement for all parties involved in a work activity to consult, communicate and coordinate (the three Cs).
Contractors must share draft TMPs with the RCA, subcontractors and any other affected parties for review and feedback.
The RCA will assess network impacts and holds the right to veto or request alternative plans if proposed works are deemed unsuitable.
RCAs still hold the legislated responsibilities to approve road closures, temporary speed limits and to grant access to the road corridor, ensuring works are coordinated with other activities on the network.
RCAs also have a responsibility to protect public assets. All reinstatement works (including road surfaces, footpaths, and berms) are required to meet council standards. Works not meeting these standards will need to be corrected at the contractor’s cost.