Advanced
stop boxes are used in an effort to ensure that Nelson continues to be cycle-friendly.
Based on a model used in the Netherlands, these were trialled in Hamilton and
Christchurch before being installed here in Nelson.
Why use advanced stop boxes?
- Cyclists are more visible to motorists
- Right-turning cyclists are properly positioned
- Left-turning motorists won't have to wait for cyclists on their left who may be going straight through the intersection
- Cyclists' exposure to exhaust is reduced (it's especially heavy from cars idling or accelerating from a stop)
- Cyclists get some priority over motor vehicles
- Cyclists feel safer as legitimate road users
How the stop box system works for cyclists and drivers
If you're cycling, use the green-painted lane (marked with cycle symbols) to reach the advanced stop box at front of the intersection, and position yourself correctly for turning or going straight - and be sure to signal your direction if turning. We've buried special 'loops' that detect when cyclists are stopped in the box, so the signal will change even if no cars are in the queue.
If you're driving, you can cross over the green cycle lanes and stop box while moving, but you should not stop in them while waiting at the intersection; instead, stop at the white limit lines behind the green stop box.
Examples of drivers and
advanced boxes
