The Transport Agency says work on the State Highway1/5 roundabout south of Tirau will continue over winter, with the final road connections to be completed in spring as the deep excavations needed to complete the tie-ins require drier weather.
In the meantime NZ Transport Agency Acting Highway Manager Karen Boyt says contractors will continue installing services such as lighting, footpaths, fences and extensive planting for the roundabout, which will replace the current T-intersection nearby.
The two pin oak trees planted in the Tirau Reserve, to mark the visit there by the Queen on her 1953/54 tour, are being retained in the centre of the roundabout.
A 7-metre high stone monolith will also be a feature of the new roundabout. The Hinuera stone monolith in the centre of the roundabout will mark the entry and exit to Ngati Raukawa rohe (territory).
About 20,000 cubic metres of soil from the site have been used to re-contour the back part of the adjoining reserve and will help with proposed plans to install a walking track. The idea came from the Tīrau community and is being considered by the South Waikato District Council.
“The new roundabout will provide safe access to the reserve and is an important step in opening up the area for public use,” Ms Boyt says.
When SH1 and SH5 connect to the roundabout, the council will use the old torn up highway for other projects in its area.
“This section of highway carries around 12,000 vehicles each day and is a key junction for traffic travelling to and from Rotorua or continuing along SH1,” Ms Boyt says.
For more information please contact:
Andy Knackstedt
Media Manager
NZ Transport Agency
T: 04 894 6285
M: 0212 763 222
E: andrew.knackstedt@nzta.govt.nz
