From the submissions, public opinion was divided. While many were in favour of the changes, there were also concerns the speed reductions would result in backed-up traffic and frustrated drivers on the road. Others also stated the issue was not with the speed limits but rather the quality of drivers on the road. Tasman deputy mayor and Tasman Regional Transport Committee chairman Stuart Bryant said from the public meetings he had attended on the proposal, he expected there would be a “mixed view” on the new limits. Bryant said it was a tricky issue, as outside of significant funding to two-lane the highway, there were not many other options open to Waka Kotahi NZTA to improve road safety.