Friday, 22 November 2024
As we approach the summer holidays, significant road works continue across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions. For Taupō residents, several projects will impact travel, so planning ahead is essential to minimize delays and disruptions.
SH1 Ātiamuri to Wairakei
Sealing, stabilisation, and median safety barrier installations are ongoing on this busy stretch of SH1. Stop/go traffic management remains in place until early December. Allow extra travel time when using this route.
East Taupō Arterial (ETA)
The East Taupō Arterial is closed from Monday, 11 November, to Friday, 6 December, between the Wairakei Roundabout and the Broadlands Interchange.
Detour Route:
- Southbound: SH1 → SH5 → Ohaaki Road → Broadlands Road → SH1
- Northbound: Reverse of the above
With Taupō hosting events like the VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in December, traffic will be heavier than usual. Heavy vehicles and through traffic are encouraged to use alternative routes (SH3, SH4, SH32, SH49) to avoid the area unless Taupō is your destination.
Upcoming Closure: Tūrangi to Waiouru
This section of SH1, including Desert Road, will close from early January to late February 2025.
Alternative Route: SH49 → SH4 → SH3 (or reverse). SH4 is now suitable for High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMV) during this closure.
Plan Your Journey
Sandra King, Bay of Plenty System Manager at Waka Kotahi, urges residents to check the NZTA Journey Planner for real-time updates on road works and traffic conditions: journeys.nzta.govt.nz.
These projects form part of the government’s $2.07 billion State Highway Pothole Prevention fund, which aims to ensure safer and more reliable highways for all road users.
Drive safely and allow extra time to reach your destination during this busy period.
