Check out the newest section of SH1 this weekend

This Sunday the public will be able to get a sneak preview of the East Taupō Arterial which is due to open to traffic in October.

The East Taupō Arterial Public Open Day is being held on Sunday 26 September and participants will be given the option of cycling, walking or running a section of the new highway, from the Centennial Drive on/off ramp north towards the Waikato River Bridge turnaround point and back – a total distance of 8km.

The additional section of the route – Centennial Drive south towards the SH5 intersection and back – will not be open as the poor weather has caused construction delays. The iconic Waikato River Bridge route will be the key spectacle and highlight for those taking part on the day.

Cyclists start at 9am (to be completed by 11am), followed by mobility scooters at 11.15am, runners and walkers at 11.30am and the SPCA Paws Walk at 12.00pm.

Those taking part on the day should bring a pocket full of gold coins to support local community groups that will be fundraising. Entry to the event is by gold coin donation with proceeds going to Lake Taupō Hospice and St John and parking will be available on Centennial Drive, opposite Owen Delany Park with a gold coin collection.

A bustling ‘market place’ will be on location selling a range of local goodies and food and drinks will be for sale with proceeds again going back into the community.

“We are really excited to see the community’s reaction to this road that has been in the pipeline for so many years,” said Ted Anderson, Group Manager Infrastructure and Parks. “This event is a celebration to mark this special milestone for the Taupō district and to acknowledge the community for their patience and support.”

Participants have until Friday to register for the event and be in to win a choice of two prizes – a hiking tour in the Whirinaki Rainforest or a private gourmet dinner for two at the exclusive Treetops Lodge & Estate. Ring 0800 ASK TDC or email enquiries@taupo.govt.nz with your contact details along with your guess for the number of participants on the day.