Break time for South Island's most prolific speed camera

Photo / File

The South Island's most prolific speed camera is taking a rest.

The fixed speed camera on Caversham Valley Rd, near Lookout Point, in Dunedin, was removed as part of a multimillion highway safety upgrade.

New Zealand Transport Agency projects team manager Simon Underwood said the camera was removed in recent weeks, "as part of the works under way to improve the safety of this section of highway".

"At this stage, we do not have any firm plans as to the re-establishment of a speed camera in this vicinity," he said.

An Official Information Act request revealed the camera snapped 3304 motorists during the 2011-12 financial year - the highest in the South Island.

Southern District acting road policing manager, Sgt Peter Muldrew said no decision had been made on whether a speed camera would continue to operate at the site.

"Speed cameras are placed in high-risk crash sites. This new piece of road will have high safety standards, therefore the value of placing a speed camera there will need further consideration."

Construction of the $20 million-$25 million second stage is being undertaken in two phases, from Barnes Dr to South Rd, and then around Lookout Point, including the Riselaw Rd bridge.

The project is expected to be completed by early 2015 and cost up to $45 million.