Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
This season, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is investing in a significant road rebuild programme across the Waikato, alongside many resealing and resurfacing sites throughout the region.
This work is in addition to our regular summer maintenance, which ensures the network remains safe, reliable, and fit for purpose.
This significant investment will mean you see a lot more activity out on the roads, especially during the peak summer. This investment aligns with the Government Policy Statement land transport (GPS 2024) by demonstrating improved network condition, preventing further deterioration, reducing costs, and minimising disruptions.
Waikato System Manager at NZTA Andrew Oakley says that from now through to the end of March 2026 people will see increased activity on the roads as crews carry out vital summer renewal work.
“This summer, we’re targeting the renewal of approximately 112 lane kilometres across the Waikato, excluding the State Highway 1 Tīrau to Waiouru project.
“This work is essential to maintain the quality and safety of our state highways and to ensure all road users have a smoother and safer journey on the network.”
At least 10 road rebuilds are in the planning phase, alongside widespread asphalt resurfacing across all corridors.
“Last year, we rebuilt around 49km of SH1 between Tīrau and Waiouru and by the end of the project in 2026, we’ll have rebuilt 66km of SH1 in total. This work is lifting the road to a much higher standard, meaning less disruptions and less maintenance needed in the future.
“We’re also tackling the Coromandel Peninsula, including the Coromandel Recovery Programme and repairs to the SH25 Boundary Creek Bridge. Given the upcoming peak summer season, we’re taking a careful and considered approach to this programme to minimise disruption.
“We know that any closures on the state highway network are inconvenient, however it’s important that we’re able to get essential rebuild work done when it needs to in the warmer weather, so that we can complete the work faster, ensuring a resilient network that continues to provide those all-important connections.”
On top of this work, crews are renewing roads through the State Highway Pothole Prevention Fund.
This funding has been set aside specifically for resealing, rehabilitation, and drainage maintenance works, helping us to tackle the issues that keep roads from being in good condition for the long term within 24 hours.
“The goal for this fund is simple: get our state highways and local roads up to the safe and reliable standard that Kiwis expect so road users can spend less time worrying about potholes and more time enjoying the ride.
“In the Waikato, we’ve repaired 9312 potholes and more than 97% of these were fixed within 24 hours. That’s a great result” says Mr Oakley.
NZTA is reminding motorists to:
- Slow down and follow signposted temporary speed limits, especially on newly sealed roads where loose chips can damage vehicles.
- Stay alert and follow traffic management instructions at work sites.
- Be patient with crews setting up and packing down sites and avoid overtaking working vehicles.
“Our crews will be working long hours, day and night, while many are enjoying their summer road trips. Slowing down through work zones helps keep everyone safe” says Mr Oakley.
To stay informed about the upcoming maintenance season: