Why are state highways numbered the way they are?
The numbering system on state highways is for internal administrative purposes but it also provides a good way for road users, particularly strangers to an area and tourists, to travel on the state highway system by using route numbers. The numbers are chosen according to what is most suitable and historical precedent. The more important roads of the state highway network have generally been given single digit numbers while the less important state highways within regional areas are usually given two digit numbers . For example, the Northland and Auckland highways are numbered 10,11 and so on to 19. South of the Auckland Harbour Bridge to Waikato is 20, 21 onwards, and from Waikato to Taupo the numbers are 30, 31 and so on to 39. When a new state highway is declared Transit looks for the most appropriate number to fit the series. Learn more about the latest (January 2004) state highway numbers and their locations numbers.
