Proposed NZTA rule changes may impact on ETA

Proposed new transport authority rules to accommodate larger sized trucks and heavier loads, which is due to go before cabinet this year, is raising questions about current design specifications in Taupo.

Taupo District Council engineers are seeking clarification from NZTA (New Zealand Transport Authority) about reports that proposed changes to roading specifications will impact on the design of the roundabouts currently being constructed as part of the new East Taupo Arterial (ETA).

Ted Anderson, Group Manager Infrastructure Services says the ETA designs that were initially signed off by NZTA have already been adjusted once to accommodate increases to NZTA roading standards.

“Obviously if there is a need to adjust these further to future proof the ETA and accommodate new rules relating to larger sized trucks and heavier loads, then this is something that needs to be identified now whilst we are still building the road,” he says

Mayor Rick Cooper says he needs to know from NZTA if they are changing the rules again. “To date I have not been officially informed of any issues with the design of the ETA, this is really something that NZTA and the Transport Minister need to sort out quickly so that local authorities like us and our contractors can get on with it.”

“It’s a bit like putting the horse before the cart. How can we be expected to change our design for rules that haven’t been introduced yet. If we do need to adjust the roundabouts, this can be done with relative ease, just tell us what needs to be allowed for,” he said.

Mr Anderson says the construction of the ETA is currently well ahead of schedule and work is continuing along the other sections of the road. “We have ceased work on the roundabouts until we get some solid answers from NZTA regarding future proofing the design, however at this stage we don't foresee any major delays and are still expecting the ETA to be completed by October this year.”