The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists and cyclists of temporary changes being introduced on State Highway 1 between Waikanae and Te Horo, starting early next Tuesday morning 18 October.
These changes are needed to accommodate construction works for the Mackays to Peka Peka (M2PP) Expressway project, and the new routes will stay in place until the expressway opens.
From Tuesday, road users driving north from Waikanae will be redirected onto a newly built local road, about two and a half kilometres north of the town.
Later in the week, both north and southbound traffic will need to use the temporary alternative route. Motorists and cyclists heading south from Te Horo and Ōtaki will be directed onto the road about four and half kilometres after Te Horo.
“We are asking motorists in the area to keep to the posted speed limit of 70 km/h and to carefully observe the signage directing them onto the correct routes, especially as things change during the week. This will help keep everyone safe – including other drivers and the road workers in the area,” Chris Hunt, acting Highway Manager, NZ Transport Agency says.
“There are two stages to the new road layout and two sets of changes for drivers when the new temporary route is first opened, so it’s going be extremely important for everyone to stay alert as those changes happen and as people become more familiar with the new ways to drive,” he says.
The new temporary route is about 350 metres longer than the current drive through the area on the existing State Highway 1.
“We’re conscious of the potential for small delays as people adjust to the new route and we’re working hard to keep any disruption to a minimum – but everyone’s safety is at the heart of this change while expressway construction is completed around Peka Peka.”
All expressway works are weather dependent and there are times when weather or other things can change timelines. Sign up to Express Lane at www.expresslane.buzzit.co.nz(external link) for regular updates and for more project information visit www.m2pp.co.nz(external link)
