With traffic expected to be heavy over the Labour Weekend, NZTA is advising motorists to plan ahead to avoid expected delays.
During peak travel times, NZTA will be closing the State Highway 1 northbound passing lanes at Waikanae and Te Horo and the southbound passing lane north of Otaki.
The closure of the northbound passing lanes will take effect from 10am Friday, 22 October and will be reopened on Saturday, 23 October at approximately 4.00pm or a time appropriate to traffic flows.
On Monday, 25 October NZTA will close the SH 1 southbound passing lane, north of Otaki, just prior to midday which will be reopened at about 10.00pm depending on traffic flows.
Wellington Operations Manager Mark Owen says the closure of the passing lanes, which are supported by the Police, is done for safety purposes and to improve traffic flows.
“The lanes will be appropriately signposted and fenced off with traffic cones, but we’re reminding people to obey the normal road rules by keeping left.
“If traffic remains heavy, passing lanes will remain closed longer until we are satisfied it is practical to reopen them.”
Mr Owen says NZTA will be working with NZ Police to monitor congestion through Otaki and, if required, will instigate temporary traffic management measures to improve traffic flow.”
The NZTA will stop all road works on the state highway network over the long weekend from midday Friday, 22 October until the morning of Tuesday, 26 October to help reduce congestion. This excludes any work needed to be done for emergency purposes and routine maintenance activities.
Meanwhile, Mr Owen said people should plan their journeys well in advance, drive with patience and avoid taking chances when turning or overtaking. “Driving with courtesy can keep traffic flowing smoothly and helps ensure the roads remain safe. We also encourage drivers to take breaks to avoid driver fatigue.”
Mr Owen says the NZTA thanks motorists for their patience and care over the long weekend.
