It sounds like a relatively simple idea but a trial allowing more time at pedestrian crossings in Invercargill is the first of its kind in the world.
Invercargill City Council on Monday began a trial of a new crossing system designed to give slower pedestrians more time to cross the road.
The extra time is activated if people press and hold the button, said the council's senior traffic engineer Eddie Cook.
"These features cater for elderly pedestrians and for people with sensory, intellectual, neurological or physical disabilities," he said.
When the button is pushed, an audio message advises people to hold the button down for a longer crossing time.
