The speed limits on the vast majority of Wellington CBD's streets are being cut from 50km/h to 30km/h.
Traffic on Lambton Quay. (File image). Photo: 123RF
The move is part of a first wave of measures in the Let's Get Wellington Moving programme, a multi-billion dollar overhaul of transport in the city.
The main downtown arterial routes will stay at 50km/h, including Taranaki and Vivian Streets, Kent and Cambridge Terrace and Jervois Quay.
Of the 1700 public submissions on the move, 64 percent supported the change.
The new rules come into effect at the end of July.
Wellington City Councillor and associate transport portfolio lead Jenny Condie said the experience from overseas showed low speeds in the CBD helped make streets more people-friendly and supported shops.
"Lowering the speed in Wellington's CBD is a good first step in encouraging more people to walk and cycle in the central city while we work on long-term plans to make these ... even more attractive."
Mayor Andy Foster said lowering the speed limits would make the central city feel safer and more attractive for people visiting, shopping, cycling or for recreation.
"In short, a better place to spend time," he said.
See a map below or read a full list of the affected streets.