Does NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi have the ability to issue exemptions, or other approvals for agricultural vehicles that exceed current Vehicle Dimensions and Mass limits if a permit cannot be granted; if so, under what circumstances?

Answer

I am advised by NZTA that the Director of Land Transport can provide for exemptions from the Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Dimension and Mass Limits 2016 under s168D(3) of the Land Transport Act 1998. This requires the Director to consider: • the Agency’s objective under section 94 of the Land Transport Management Act 2003; and • the need to maintain or improve land transport safety; and • whether the exemption supports the response to an emergency or other event; and • any other matter that the Director considers appropriate in the circumstances. One matter that NZTA is likely to consider is the impact to any relevant infrastructure that NZTA is the road controlling authority for. The Director would also likely consult with any local road controlling authority before providing an exemption that would affect the roading network of that local road controlling authority.