Construction on the new 60-metre roundabout in Piarere is approaching another milestone, with the first completed approach roads set to open.
The roundabout opened to traffic in September 2024 with 2 temporary approach roads in action while work continued on the 3 permanent approaches.
This change will see traffic from all three of the legs approaching the roundabout using the roundabout.
Acting Regional Manager Infrastructure Delivery Waikato/Bay of Plenty for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Bruce Waugh, says road workers are making great progress and are preparing to open the new and permanent SH1 (from Tīrau) and SH29 approaches in mid-December.
“The temporary layout has operated well but we’re looking forward to the next phase, which is 1 step closer to a completed roundabout.”
Mr Waugh says traffic will be moved onto the new approach roads during the day, Tuesday 17 December.
“We’re keeping the road open while the switch is made - no road closures or stop/go are needed; however, motorists should prepare for minor delays in the area. We expect both roads to be opened by the end of the day.”
Prior to the switch, line marking will be undertaken under stop/go on Monday 16 December from 8pm to 4am (weather dependent). Motorists should expect delays of around 10 minutes during this time.
The opening of these approaches will see the current tie-in road for Tīrau traffic become an access lane for nearby properties.
The temporary Hamilton approach road will remain in use while work continues on the permanent configuration, which is expected to be finished in early 2025.
All construction is on track to be completed in mid-2025. Once finished, the roundabout will improve efficiency, connectivity, and safety on this very important high-volume route.
NZTA thanks motorists for their patience and asks drivers to stick to temporary speed limits and take extra care when travelling through the area while people adjust to the new layout.
