Transport and Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges announced a significant funding initiative aimed at accelerating the transition to LED road lighting during the Road Lighting Conference in Auckland. The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) will expedite funding for local authorities wishing to upgrade to LED lighting, allowing them to access approximately $66 million over the next three years. Currently, only 2% of New Zealand’s 370,000 road lights use LED technology, but this program aims to enhance urban safety, reduce energy and maintenance costs, and minimize light pollution. Auckland Transport plans to replace 40,000 of its 100,000 street lights with LEDs over the next four years, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainable and efficient street lighting solutions.