Category: Transport

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Crews have kicked back into gear following the holiday season with road renewal works underway in the Manawatū-Whanganui region.

From Wednesday 15 January, road rebuild works will begin on a section of State Highway 54 (SH54) Kimbolton Road, near the intersection with Ridds Road.

This daytime road maintenance and drainage improvement work will be carried out over 12 weeks, and is expected to be complete by Monday 14 April.

Crews will be working between 6am – 7pm Monday to Friday, including some weekends (weather permitting). During the work, temporary traffic management will be in place 24/7.

Between 6am and 7pm, a section of SH54 will be down to one lane under stop/go traffic management, with a temporary speed limit of 30km/h. Delays of up to 10 minutes are expected. Outside of working hours, temporary traffic lights and a reduced speed limit of 30km/h will be in place at the site.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi acknowledges this work will be disruptive for some road users and appreciates people’s patience while this strengthening work is carried out to make the road more resilient.

Rebuilds involve the removal of the existing road surface and underlying road structure and replacing them with new materials. Rebuilds help improve the overall condition of our state highway network, resulting in stronger, more resilient roads.

Crews will also return in about 12 months to add the second coat of seal on this section of SH54 which waterproofs and further strengthens the road.

The 2024/2025 road renewal season

During the course of the renewal season, which typically runs between October to March when the weather is warmer and drier, it’s anticipated that 17 lane kilometres* of state highway in the region will be rebuilt. Crews have already completed a number of rebuilds on SH1, SH2, and SH54 (Vinegar Hill) so far this construction season.

For more information about the 2024/2025 season:
Manawatū-Whanganui maintenance and operations webpage

Other renewal works currently underway

State Highway 1, Bulls asphalting: Work has begun on SH1/High St in Bulls. A short section of High St is closed each night between 6pm – 6am, with a detour via Criterion St. Stop/go is also in place.

Range of resurfacing road maintenance for SH1 Bulls starts next week

State Highway 56, Opiki rebuild: Work has begun on a section of SH56 in Opiki, between Alve Rd and the SH57 intersection. From 7 January to 7 March, daytime closures are in place each day between 6am – 6pm. The detour is via SH57 or SH1.

SH56 maintenance work at Opiki starting next week

_{*Lane kilometres are the total length of lanes to be resealed or rehabilitated. For example, resealing both lanes of a 10 kilometre stretch of two-lane highway results in 20 lane kilometres.}  

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

A reminder that work begins on Monday at the site of the new State Highway 57/Tararua Road roundabout as the first stage of construction gets underway.

During the first stage of work, there will be no access from SH57 to the western section of Tararua Road and a detour will be in place.

Northbound road users will be detoured onto Queen Street East, and those travelling south will be detoured to SH1 via Kimberley Road. This will allow for traffic to steadily flow through SH57, minimising disruption on the highway.

There will also be a 30km/h temporary speed limit on SH57 near the site for the safety of road users and crews.

Crews will be working Monday to Friday between 6am and 6:30pm. Outside these hours, the detour and temporary speed limit will remain during evenings and weekends while the work is completed.

The detour and temporary speed limit are expected to be in place until June. Completion of the roundabout is expected towards the end of the year.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and Horowhenua District Council (HDC) are working in partnership to build the new roundabout, which will improve safety at this busy intersection and provide a future connection to the new Ōtaki to north of Levin highway and Tara Ika growth area.

We acknowledge the traffic management in place is likely to cause delays and we want to thank everyone for their patience while we make the area safer.

View/download larger map [JPG, 246 KB]

SH57/Tararua Road roundabout project page

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Christmas has come and gone, and as we move rapidly into 2025, the State Highway summer maintenance season kicks back into gear in Nelson.

State Highway 6 Annesbrook Drive is next in line for resurfacing and repairs later this month, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

The highway will be closed between the Whakatu Drive Roundabout and Blackwood Street from 7:30 pm to 5 am between 19 and 27 January (no work on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 January) when asphalting work will be carried out.

Rob Service, NZTA System Manager Nelson – Tasman, says this is essential maintenance work and is crucial for ensuring the highway is up to standard for all road users.

“Annesbrook Drive is one of Nelson’s busier arterial routes and carries more than 13,000 vehicles daily. It is essential it is maintained in good order.

“Asphalting is a longer lasting solution that provides a stronger and more durable road, reducing the frequency of future maintenance. Doing this work now prevents problems and costlier repairs later,” he says.  

A local road detour will be in place for traffic in both directions via Parkers Road, Bolt Road, and Quarantine Road. This detour is expected to add up to 10 minutes to travel time.

Once asphalting work is complete, road markings will be reinstated under night works with stop/go controls and a 30 km/h speed limit.

Given the nature of the work and the fact Annesbrook Drive is a busy road, Mr Service says drivers and residents must expect some disruption.

“We will do our best to minimise it as much as possible. This is why it will be done at night when there are fewer cars on the road. We have also deliberately timed the work after the busy holiday period and before Nelson Anniversary weekend.”

However, he warns drivers must factor the work into their travel plans.

“This is still a main route between Nelson and Richmond. Don’t get caught out. Drivers must be aware the detours will mean slightly longer travel times.”

During the work, Whakatu Drive will remain open in both directions between Waimea Road and Quarantine Road.

Access for people travelling to and from Nelson Airport will remain in place via Quarantine Roundabout and Quarantine Road, or by using the detour via Parkers Road and Bolt Road.

The shared cycle and pedestrian path between Gracefield Street and SH6 Annesbrook Drive, opposite Manchester Way, will be closed while work is underway. An alternate route will be in place in both directions.

Works details

• Sunday, 19 January to Monday, 27 January. 7:30 pm to 5 am. No work on Friday, 24 January or Saturday, 25 January.
• Full road closure on State Highway 6 Annesbrook Drive, between the Whakatu Drive Roundabout and Blackwood Street.
• Local road detour in both directions for all vehicles, including heavies, via Parkers Road, Bolt Road, and Quarantine Road. This detour is expected to add up to 10 minutes to travel time.
• Access to and from Nelson Airport will be maintained via Quarantine Roundabout and Quarantine Road, or by using the detour via Parkers Road and Bolt Road.
• SH6 Whakatu Drive will remain open in both directions between Waimea Road and Quarantine Road.
• There will be no access between SH6 Annesbrook Drive and the Whakatu Drive Roundabout.
• Access to/from SH6 Annesbrook Drive and Douglas Road will be closed during the work. Douglas Road will remain accessible via Gracefield Street.
• There will be no left turn onto SH6, Annesbrook Drive from Maire Street during the closure times.
• Access will be available within the site for residents, businesses, and emergency services. There will be no access between Whakatu Roundabout and SH6, Annesbrook Drive.
• A 30 km/h temporary speed limit will be in place during the day outside of work hours. Road users must follow the instructions of contractors and obey all temporary speed limits and traffic controls.
• The shared pedestrian and cycle path between Gracefield Street and SH6 Annesbrook Drive, opposite Manchester Way, will be closed while work is underway. An alternate route will be in place in both directions via the Gracefield Street Overpass, Langdon Overbridge, the Quarantine Road Pedestrian Underpass and SH6 Annesbrook Drive.

Works location

More information

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Road users and residents need to be ready for night closures on SH58 Whitby/Paremata, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

“Work is starting this Sunday night, 12 January, for five nights through to Thursday,” says NZTA Wellington Transport Alliance Manager, Roxanne Hilliard.

Road crews will resurface areas of State Highway 58 between Joseph Banks Drive and Postgate Drive for five nights. “They will set up from 7 pm each night so drivers should expect delays from then,” says Ms Hilliard.

Postgate Drive to James Cook Drive – two nights

Resurfacing will be carried out on Sunday 12 January and Monday 13 January. SH58 Paremata Road will be fully closed between Postgate Drive and James Cook Drive, 9 pm to 4.30 am each night until the following morning.

James Cook Drive to Joseph Banks Drive – three nights work

Resurfacing will be carried out on Tuesday 14 January, Wednesday 15 January and Thursday 16 January. SH58 Paremata Road will be fully closed between James Cook Drive and Joseph Banks Drive, 9 pm to 4.30 am each night until the following morning.

“SH58 between Pāuatahanui and Paremata is a critical transport link.” says Ms Hilliard. “Regular maintenance is essential to ensure it remains resilient and accessible to road users and residents. We appreciate everyone taking care around crews and on the detour route while this work is happening.”

Road users and residents are urged to plan ahead for these works.

Works schedule and detour maps

SH58 Postgate Drive to James Cook Drive

• Sunday, 12 January and Monday, 13 January. Road closed 9pm – 4.30am the following morning.
• Local road detour available – see map below.

View larger map [JPG, 106 KB]

SH58 James Cook Drive to Joseph Banks Drive

• Tuesday, 14 January, Wednesday, 15 January and Thursday, 16 January. Road closed 9pm – 4.30am the following morning.
• Local road detour available – see map below.

View larger map [PNG, 89 KB]

More information

• Wellington Transport Alliance (sign up to roadwork mailing lists here)
• Wellington roadworks

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

The Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road (SH2) eastbound lanes between Pāpāmoa and Paengaroa (towards Whakatāne / Rotorua) will be closed between 5.30am and 1pm on Saturday 18 January 2025 for the cycle-leg of the Tauranga Half Triathlon, which is part of the Mount Festival of Multisport.  

This is the fifth year the event has used the Toll Road lanes for the cycle leg and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is pleased to be able to support the on-going success of the event.  

The alternative route for motorists during this time is via Te Puke Highway.   

Minor delays may be experienced for Toll Road users during this time and traffic management will be in place at the Domain Road Interchange and Paengaroa Roundabout.  

The westbound lanes between Paengaroa and Pāpāmoa will operate as usual.    

For safety reasons, the Paengaroa Roundabout will be closed to spectators and traffic management will be in place. The best place to watch the event is along Marine Parade and Oceanbeach Road, Mount Maunganui.   

Road closures relating to the Mount Festival of Multisport(external link)

Detour information

View larger map [PNG, 631 KB]

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

To kick start the New Year, State Highway 5 (SH5) from Oturoa Road west to the South Waikato boundary will be getting a refresh. The 8-week road rebuild will take place 5- 6 days a week from 7am to 6pm beginning Tuesday 14 January. Enabling works are underway this week to get the worksite ready.

Both lanes of SH5 are being rebuilt says Sandra King, Bay of Plenty System Manager at NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).  

“The work involves digging down to remove the existing road pavement and replacing it with new layers.  

“The worksite is almost 2 kilometres long, so motorists should expect some delays during the day, but we’re starting it during the school holidays when traffic volumes are lighter, meaning less disruption for motorists and the community,” says Ms King. 

There will be stop/go in place for the majority of the week as well as lane switches and a temporary speed limit of 30km/h while the work is taking place.  The crews may also be required to work on Saturdays.  

“Our state highway network is essential for moving people and goods around the country, and our work ensures the road is safe and accessible for everyone who travels on it,” says Ms King. 

This work forms part of the government’s $2.07 billion investment into road and drainage renewal and maintenance across 2024-27 via the State Highway Pothole Prevention fund.  

Also in Rotorua, resurfacing work which started on Tuesday 7 January on State Highway 30 Te Ngae Road, will continue for 10 nights between 8pm and 5am. While the work is taking place the road will be closed and traffic detoured. All traffic travelling north including heavy traffic will be required to turn left at Vaughan Road and follow detours to Ōwhata Roundabout. All southbound traffic will turn right at Ōwhata Roundabout and follow detours to Marino Road/SH30 Te Ngae Road intersection.  

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Resurfacing works planned for the week starting Sunday, 12 January on SH2 between Masterton and Carterton have been postponed due to the unusually cold temperatures we have been experiencing.

Works will be planned as soon as ground temperatures allow us to complete the surface work without compromising quality,” says Roxanne Hilliard, Wellington Alliance Manager for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

Night-time road closures will detour onto Cornwall Road and the Hughes Line. (See map below). A further update will be provided once the weather has improved, and new dates have been confirmed. 

These particular works cannot be carried out in colder ground temperatures as it would affect the quality of the surfacing. NZTA requires overnight ground temperatures to be at or above 15 degrees for this work.

Road users are encouraged to check for updates on the highway’s status on the NZTA website once this work gets underway:

Highway conditions – Wellington(external link)

Earlier media release: State Highway 2 Masterton to Carterton – urgent road repairs planned before Christmas

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi would like to thank everyone who travelled on the Auckland motorway network over the summer break for their patience while critical maintenance work was carried out on State Highway 1.

To minimise disruption to road users, NZTA took advantage of lower traffic volumes during the holiday period to replace a bridge joint at Spaghetti Junction and carry out essential maintenance on the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

NZTA Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations, Jacqui Hori-Hoult says our crews on the ground were grateful to all road users who adhered to traffic management in place and showed respect towards the on-site workers, helping to keep everyone safe.

“We acknowledge the work will have caused disruption and delay and we want to thank all road users who were patient and adhered to the lower speeds and traffic management in place while our roading crews were working to make our roads even more resilient.

“We were able to complete critical work and ensure the safety of our teams within closures on some of the busiest sections of the Auckland motorway network. Road users’ compliance was high which is a fantastic outcome for our roads and for the safety of our workers.”

Further maintenance work is scheduled to begin Sunday 19 January in the port area, on State Highway 16 The Strand. This will include full lane closures during the weekend and lane restrictions on week nights.

For a schedule of the SH16 works, please visit:

SH16 Port area summer works – The Strand, Stanley Street and Gladstone Road

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

State Highway 1 Weld Pass will be the first big resurfacing job in Marlborough in the New Year as the state highway summer maintenance season continues in the top of the South Island.

Night works are planned for Weld Pass from Wednesday, 29 January to Thursday, 13 February. Work will be carried out nightly between 7 pm and 5 am.

Allowances are being made for the Waitangi Day holiday. Contractors will stop work at 5am on Wednesday, 5 February and won’t resume work until 7pm on Friday, 7 February. 

Contractors will be carrying out structural asphalt work to strengthen the road surface on a 500m section of Weld Pass. This will include milling, or removing the old surface, before adding new layers. They will also maximise the closure by carrying out other maintenance work including clearing drainage and attending to signage and vegetation.

Mark Owen, Regional Manager Wellington/Top of the South, says Weld Pass must be closed to all traffic while the work is completed.

“Weld Pass is a narrow road with very limited space. Resurfacing work and laying asphalt requires large machinery that occupies a lot of space. It simply isn’t possible to allow traffic through the work site while work is underway.”

“A full closure at night is safer for road crews and the public. It also allows the work to be finished much faster. Doing this sort of the work during the day under stop/go, when there is more traffic would create major delays for drivers. This something we absolutely want to avoid,” Mr Owen says.

While there will be a midnight opening each night to allow queued traffic through the work site, Mr Owen warns the closure will create delays for people travelling between Blenheim and Christchurch.

“It is essential drivers are aware of the closure and factor it into their travel plans.”

“There are no suitable local road detours, meaning the only alternative route between Christchurch and Blenheim is the inland route – Lewis Pass, Murchison, St Arnaud – this is a much longer route and drivers, especially those with Picton ferry connections, must be prepared,” Mr Owen says.

Mr Owen advises travellers that other essential state highway maintenance work will be underway in Marlborough from late January and recommends drivers plan ahead and check the NZTA Journey Planner.

“While the Weld Pass closure is underway, contractors will also resurface two roundabouts in Blenheim, making the most of the lower freight volumes travelling on State Highway 1.”

“Drivers need to keep this in mind. Please, check road conditions before you travel. Be aware of where the road works are so you can plan your journeys properly,” he says.

Other Marlborough State Highway maintenance works

• SH1 Grove Rd and SH6 Nelson St roundabouts resurfacing
  • Sunday 2 February to Tuesday 4 February. 7pm – 5am 
• SH1 Grove Road and Main Street roundabout resurfacing
  • Sunday  9 February to Wednesday 12 February. 7pm – 5am 
• SH1/Freeths Rd intersection, turning bay construction
  • Monday 27 January to Friday 21 March

More information on these projects will be shared soon, before work begins.

Works schedule

• Wednesday, 29 January to Thursday, 13 February, 7 pm to 5 am. No work on the night of Wednesday, 5 February or Thursday, 6 February.
• Full road closure – no suitable local road detours available. An alternative route to Christchurch is via the inland route – St Arnaud, Murchison, Lewis Pass. This is a significantly longer route and has much longer travel times.
• There will be one opening each night at midnight to let queued traffic through the work area. The northbound lane will travel first, followed by the southbound lane.
• These works are weather-dependent, and schedules may change.
• Road users must follow the instructions of contractors and obey all temporary speed limits and traffic controls.

More information