The NZ Transport Agency is advising that Paekākāriki Hill Road will be temporarily closed to through traffic on Friday 30 November between 2pm and 7pm or when traffic eases on State Highway 1.
The Transport Agency is collaborating with NZ Police, Kāpiti District Council and Porirua City Council on the temporary closure between the State Highway 1 intersection and Grays Road at Pauatahanui, to trial its effectiveness in improving safety and journey times.
“The extra traffic using Paekākāriki Hill Road at peak times are at a higher risk of accidents, both on the steep, winding road and when merging with traffic at Paekākāriki on State Highway 1,” Transport Agency Systems Manager Mark Owen says.
“There is also a significant number of vehicles that use Paekākāriki Hill Road as a shortcut and exit onto State Highway 1 at Paekākāriki where they cause considerable delays for southbound and northbound highway traffic.
“We’re hoping that the closure will result in improvements to safety and congestion, and depending on the results, we may consider further temporary closures in the lead-up to Christmas.”
Paekākāriki Hill Road residents and others working or visiting properties on the road will be able to enter from the State Highway 1 at Paekākāriki and Pauatahanui.
However, those leaving a property on Paekākāriki Hill Road will not be able to exit onto State Highway 1 at Paekākāriki during the temporary closure and should use an alternate route such as Grays Road at Pauatahanui.
Emergency services will have full access to Paekākāriki Hill Road at all times and if there is an emergency on the highway, the closure will be lifted so that the road can be used as a detour.
The NZ Transport Agency thanks road users for their understanding and patience.
Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey this summer.
