Traffic lights operational at Te Maunga, some detours in place

A new temporary signalised intersection at the Te Maunga junction of State Highway 2 and State Highway 29A is now operational, however some detours remain in place.

Motorists are advised of the following updates, effective from Monday 28 September until further notice:

• From SH29A, motorists heading northbound (towards Mount Maunganui) must stay in the left lane for State Highway 2 Maunganui Road.
• From SH29A, motorists heading southbound (towards Papamoa/Te Puke) are advised to stay in the right lane; a detour remains in place along Truman Lane, Mangatawa Link Road and Sandhurst Drive/Mangatawa Interchange.
• A lane closure is in place SH29A eastbound between Baypark roundabout and the railway crossing. A lane closure also applies in the northbound (right) lane from Truman Lane.
• No changes apply for motorists coming from SH2 Maunganui Road heading towards SH29A from the Te Maunga intersection.
• No changes apply for motorists coming from Tauranga Eastern Link heading towards Mount Maunganui or Tauriko.

Waka Kotahi is working closely with KiwiRail to resolve a technical issue, which caused a temporary delay to the scheduled opening of the intersection over the weekend. While this work is undertaken, some initial delays are anticipated. Waka Kotahi recommends motorists allow extra time for their journeys, especially during morning and evening peak times.

Motorists are advised to reduce speed, follow directions of traffic management staff and signage and to exercise caution around the rail crossing.

The rail level crossing on SH29A will continue to operate with the traffic signals. Marked yellow zones already highlight no queueing zones and warn motorists of the danger when queuing over live railway lines. Emergency escape bays are being added between the railway lines and traffic signals, and these will provide an emergency space for any vehicle needing to clear the yellow zone when a train is approaching.

Waka Kotahi thanks motorists for their patience.

For up to date information on road works, traffic, detours and delays, motorists are encouraged to visit the Journey planner website.

Journey planner(external link)

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey. Keep up to date with:

• Traffic updates: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic(external link)
• Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWaikatoBoP(external link)
• Twitter: twitter.com/WakaKotahiWaiBP(external link)
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)
• Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)