This summer, New Zealand’s roads are set to experience an extraordinary level of construction activity, warns Waka Kotahi. Crews have started working earlier this season due to the high volume of required repairs and constructions.
Over the next 6-7 months, more than 2500 lane kilometres will undergo reconstruction or resealing. This is a notable increase from the previous year, with the project being about 20% larger. Jacqui Hori-Hoult, the acting national manager of maintenance & operations at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, said that apart from the significant renewal, the agenda also includes recovery work, safety projects and major infrastructure endeavours.
Hori-Hoult highlighted that the concentration of work is mainly in the centre of the North Island. This is because of the effects of multiple weather events which led to the pausing of renewal projects earlier this year. She mentioned the recent extreme rainfall on State Highway 6 in the Haast Pass area and praised the crews for their swift response.
With so much construction planned, there are inevitable delays on major routes. Hori-Hoult suggests that road users utilise the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner to understand the potential impacts on their travel and choose the best path.
She also advises drivers to be prepared, especially during long journeys. Essential items include water and snacks, and it’s crucial to take breaks regularly. Moreover, she reminds drivers to be respectful and follow directions when passing construction sites, bearing in mind the safety of the workers.
To alleviate holiday travel congestion, roadworks will be reduced around public holidays. While most of the renewal work aims to conclude by late March 2024, some activities, especially asphalt works, may extend into the autumn.
