Traffic Management Plan Checklist New Zealand (2026)

The Complete Checklist for Preparing a Traffic Management Plan in New Zealand

Traffic Management Plan Checklist New Zealand is essential for ensuring safety, legal compliance, and efficient traffic flow during construction works, road maintenance, and public events. A properly prepared Traffic Management Plan (TMP) protects workers, pedestrians, cyclists, and road users while meeting NZGTTM and council approval requirements across New Zealand.

A Traffic Management Plan is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a critical safety document that reduces risk, prevents delays, and ensures smooth project delivery. This guide provides a complete checklist to help you prepare a compliant and effective TMP.


What Is a Traffic Management Plan?

Traffic Management Plan outlines how traffic will be managed safely while work is carried out on or near a roadway. It details traffic control measures, signage, layouts, and responsibilities to minimise disruption and hazards.

In New Zealand, all Traffic Management Plans must comply with NZGTTM and be approved by the relevant Road Controlling Authority (RCA).


When Is a Traffic Management Plan Required in New Zealand?

A Traffic Management Plan is required when work affects:

  • Public roads or footpaths
  • Traffic lanes or shoulders
  • Pedestrian or cyclist routes
  • Parking spaces or access points
  • Event-related road use or closures

Without an approved TMP, work may be stopped, delayed, or penalised.


Traffic Management Plan Checklist New Zealand

Project and Site Information

Include the project name, exact site location, road classification, speed limits, scope of work, duration, working hours, and contact details of responsible personnel.


Road Environment Assessment

Assess traffic volumes, pedestrian and cyclist activity, public transport routes, nearby schools or businesses, and intersections. A clear understanding of site conditions ensures realistic traffic control measures.


Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

Identify all potential hazards such as reduced visibility, live traffic exposure, narrow lanes, and conflicting vehicle movements. Each hazard must have a corresponding control measure aligned with NZGTTM standards.


Temporary Traffic Management Layout

Provide accurate diagrams showing cone placement, signage, barriers, tapers, detours, and lane closures. Diagrams must be clear, correctly scaled, and suitable for the road environment.


Signage and Equipment Compliance

Ensure all traffic signs meet NZTA standards, are clean and reflective, and are placed at correct distances. Barriers and equipment must be appropriate for the level of risk and traffic speed.


Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety

Clearly show safe pedestrian detours, temporary walkways, crossing points, and cyclist protection. Safe access for vulnerable road users is a critical requirement under NZGTTM.


Traffic Controllers and Staffing

Detail the number of required traffic controllers, their roles, and their training or certification levels. Only trained and competent personnel should implement a Traffic Management Plan.


Emergency and Incident Management

Include procedures for emergency vehicle access, incident response, weather-related changes, and after-hours site safety. Emergency access must never be compromised.


Monitoring and Maintenance

Explain how traffic controls will be inspected, monitored, and maintained throughout the project. A Traffic Management Plan must be updated if site conditions change.


Approval and Documentation

Submit the TMP to the relevant Road Controlling Authority within required timeframes. Approved documents must be available on-site at all times.


Common Traffic Management Plan Mistakes

  • Incorrect or unclear traffic diagrams
  • Missing pedestrian provisions
  • Outdated NZGTTM references
  • Inadequate signage placement
  • Poor communication with councils

Avoiding these issues improves approval speed and site safety.


Why Professional Traffic Management Planning Matters

Using a professional Traffic Management Plan Checklist New Zealand approach ensures compliance, faster approvals, and safer worksites. Experienced traffic management consultants understand local council requirements, complex road environments, and NZGTTM updates.

ISAV Design provides professional Traffic Management Plans for low-volume and complex road projects across Auckland and surrounding regions.


Conclusion

Following this Traffic Management Plan Checklist New Zealand helps ensure compliance, reduce risk, and maintain safe and efficient traffic flow. A well-prepared Traffic Management Plan supports worker safety, public protection, and successful project outcomes.

For expert Traffic Management Plans, approvals, and temporary traffic management services, ISAV Design is ready to assist.


For expert Traffic Management Plans and compliant temporary traffic solutions, contact ISAV Design today to discuss your project requirements.

info@isavdesign.co.nz

0800 33 4728

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