Get moving: Mystery of the brown motorway exit shields

Q: We have just about got used to motorway exit numbering, but what are those numbers in little brown shields on some exit signs? Are they still relevant or necessary? Hazel Jones, Balmoral.

A: They are arterial route numbers. Years ago the Auckland system was thought up by the regional council, with Transit in support. The idea is that if you look up your route in the map book, you can find your way to wherever you're going by following the little shield signs on the city streets. I've never used them but apparently a lot of people do. Other NZ cities have a similar system, as do cities overseas. Some of the Auckland urban routes are due for renewal to provide some consistency between local authority areas, but there is no plan to ditch the scheme.

Q: At the railway line in Dalgety Drive in Wiri there is quite a deep depression in the roadway, causing traffic to swerve or brake heavily. Could it be fixed? Jim Watkins, Manurewa.

A: While the crossing itself is the responsibility of Ontrack, Manukau City Council is looking to improve the road surface within the next two months or so to get rid of that big pothole.

Q: Are traffic lights or a roundabout planned for the intersection of Mahia and Coxhead Rds any time soon? Annette Bearda, Weymouth.

A: Traffic lights are scheduled to be installed at this intersection in the coming financial year. To help with increasing traffic volumes, Mahia Rd will also be widened.

Explanation: A reader has asked about the new style of number plate, with a broader type-face. This was introduced on March 1, about the time plates beginning DF appeared. Apparently a problem with the previous version was that letters could be cut out of the plates and manipulated to create new plates. It is hoped the criminal fraternity will not be able to do this successfully with the new plates.