$1.8 billion is forecast to be invested in Waikato in the 2021–24 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) period. This will provide a safe, accessible land transport system, that underpins Waikato’s valuable economic contribution and importance as a regional hub.
Cyclists, walkers and residents at Tamahere have a safer crossing of SH21 Airport Road with the new underpass now open. The Cambridge to Hamilton section of the Te Awa path is the final link in the 66km path which is expected to become one of New Zealand’s Great Rides.
The Waikato Expressway was completed in July when the last of the seven sections opened. It improves safety and reliability and reduces travel times and congestion on SH1 by delivering a four-lane highway from the Bombay Hills to south of Cambridge.
Safety improvements have started on the SH1 Cambridge to Piarere, with planning also underway for additional stages. The NZ UP SH1/29 intersection project is working through land purchasing and consenting to construct a new roundabout.
Resealing work on SH1 Hātepe Hill has recently been finished. Work to install flexible median safety barriers and roadside barriers on SH1 between Maroa Road and Tram Road is expected to start in the coming months, making the road safer.
Through June 2022, Mangaotama Stream Bridge is closed to allow the bridge’s deck and beams to be replaced. The upgrade work will give traffic a safer route over the Mangaotama Stream
SH39 Mangaotama Stream Bridge closed 13 June to 26 June
Sealing work on the Awakino Tunnel Bypass alignment and stabilisation of the passing lane area east of the car park has been completed, improving safety, resilience and route availability.
SH3 Awakino Gorge to Mt Messenger programme
Construction is underway on a replacement Kōpaki Rail Overbridge on SH3. The new bridge will offer greater visibility for turning traffic and is scheduled to open in April 2023.
SH30 Kōpaki rail overbridge replacement
Pepe Stream Bridge was built in 1942 and needs replaced. We’re investigating options for replacement and working through a business case.
SH25 Pepe Stream Bridge replacement
As part of the delivery of New Zealand’s road safety strategy, Road to Zero, Waka Kotahi has identified two Waikato corridors and six intersections where safety improvements could make a big difference in saving lives.
Feasibility studies are underway to assess the scope, cost, risk and timeframes of these safety improvements. These studies will inform the decision of whether to progress the project to the next stages. Funding will need to be applied for beyond the feasibility phase.
Corridors:
Intersections:
Maintenance activity undertaken during 2021/22:
Maintenance infographic for 2021/22 [JPG, 1.1 MB]
Planned maintenance for 2022/23:
Maintenance infographic for 2022/23 [PNG, 152 KB]
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency sought feedback on its speed management plan for state highways. Submissions closed on 12 December 2022.