Belief dropping our speed will drive down our number of road fatalities.

Waka Kotahi's proposed sweeping speed limit decreases on state highways across the country - with focus around schools and marae.

AA Road Safety spokesperson Dylan Thompson told Kate Hawkesby it's a key part of the Road to Zero Strategy.

He says there's clear evidence from both overseas and within New Zealand, that the changes result in fewer crashes.

Consultation on these latest changes closes on December 12.

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