Street Lights
Council operates a network of streetlights throughout the urban area. Most of the lights are High Pressure Sodium lamps. These are the common orange/yellow lights that can be seen in most streets. They are very efficient light source but the colour does affect how we see things and some objects may be more difficult to discern than others. LED lights are now becoming a viable option for street lighting. These lights have low energy use and a long life which reduces operating costs. They also produce a very white light which improves colour rendition and the effectiveness of the lighting. Several streets in Hamilton now use these lights (Ryan Ave and Enderley Ave are examples).
Streetlights are maintained and serviced by Council contractors. They patrol main roads regularly and repair faults, but we rely on residents to report faults in residential areas. If a light near you is not working please contact Council and we will arrange for a contractor to repair it. Please give a good description of the light location of the light, such as a street address, and a description of the problem as the contractor will repair it during the day when the lights are not going and will not be able to see what is wrong.
If the light is on a State Highway please contact the New Zealand Transport Agency on 07 958 7220.
The cables that supply the street lights and the equipment that switches them on and off are owned and maintained by WEL Networks and queries about cables should be directed to WEL on 07 838 1399.
Council has a programme to upgrade street lighting in older parts of the City to the latest standards. If the lights in your street are working but you feel there are not enough of them please contact the City Transportation office to request upgrade work. Funds for this work are limited and there are a lot of streets requiring work so the programme does have to be carefully prioritised.
If street lights are causing a nuisance by shining into your house please contact the City Transportation office who may be able to arrange for the light to be modified to reduce light.
Lights in private lanes or right of ways are owned by the properties down the lane. Power and repair charges are the responsibility of the property owners. You will need to contact an electrical contractor for assistance.
Page reviewed: 21 Jun 12:02pm