The new Ōtaki to north of Levin highway will improve safety, reliability and efficiency for those moving around or through the Horowhenua District and lower North Island. The Crown-funded highway project is one of the original Roads of National Significance.
Since the RMA consents for the Ōtaki to north of Levin new highway were granted in December and the Notice of Requirement confirmed, we’ve been working to develop the design of the new highway, ahead of starting construction in Spring this year.
The updated design has taken into consideration a range of aspects, including a greater understanding of ground conditions, and anticipated construction costs.
While there are some changes to the RMA concept design, our project objectives remain the same – to deliver a safer, more resilient and efficient highway that will support the region’s economic growth.
Take a look at our information boards to find out more about the new highway [PDF, 7.2 MB]
Watch our new fly-through video(external link)
We’d like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who came along to the community drop-in sessions last month.
Across the 5 drop-in sessions we spoke to around 500 people who were interested to understand more about the updated design of the new Ō2NL highway and provide their feedback.
We understand the importance of this project to the community, and the feedback that we received will be reflected in the advice given to the NZTA Board this month.
We'll continue to keep you updated as this progresses.
NZTA, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority and local hapū of Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga are working together to create a positive legacy for the region while we build a new, safer and more reliable State Highway 1 from Ōtaki to north of Levin.
The new four-lane 24km highway will dramatically improve safety, improve resilience and provide better access to walking and cycling facilities for those moving around or through the Horowhenua District and lower North Island.
During the last five years, 72 people have died or been seriously injured along the route, making it one of the country’s most dangerous sections of road to drive.
Construction is expected to begin in 2025 and be completed in 2029.
NZTA has now signed two interim project alliance agreements with the two alliances who will support the ongoing development and delivery of the new highway.
Each alliance will each deliver a section of the road and associated works.
South of the Ohau river we will be working with alliance partners Downer, McConnell Dowell, Beca and Tonkin+Taylor. The northern section of the new highway and associated works will be delivered through an alliance with Fulton Hogan, HEB, WSP and Aurecon.
Details are in our media release:
Another major milestone for Ōtaki to north of Levin as alliances formed
In our new project videos, hear from project partners about what the new highway and shared user path will bring to the region, the positive legacy it will leave, and the partnership approach in delivering the project.
Project outcomes
Creating an enduring legacy
Mana whenua insights
Ōtaki to north of Levin new highway fly through May 2025
While we work to deliver the new highway, we’re working to make the existing State Highway 1 and State Highway 57 safer now. We’ve implemented safer speeds and continue install safety improvements to the existing roads. You can find out more on the Existing highways – safety and speed page:
