Work begins on Central Avenue and Western Hills intersection

The NZ Transport Agency is starting work on the next stage of its project to improve State Highway 1 through central Whangarei.

​The project includes widening the existing highway, construction of new footpaths, and the installation of new utilities.  The work extends from the Caltex Service Station to Wilson Avenue on SH1 (also known as Western Hills Drive), and from 3rd Avenue to 5th Avenue on Central Avenue.

The NZTA’s acting State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland, Steve Mutton, says the project will benefit Whangarei, but there will be widespread disruption first before those benefits are delivered.

“We regret any inconvenience and will do everything we can to minimise disruption to the community, but any works on a busy section of highway like this will be disruptive,” Mr Mutton says.

“We will have diversions in place, but people should allow more time for their travel so that they can reach their destinations safely and on time.”

The programme of works will be split into three stages:

• Relocating overhead power and telecommunication services underground
• Widening of existing road and constructing new footpaths
• Completion of the roading upgrade

 

The works are due to be completed next April.
   
No night works are planned at this stage. The SH1 projects in Whangarei include safer facilities for walkers and cyclists, widening the highway, and smoother traffic flows at intersections.

They will help ease congestion, which will support economic growth in and around Whangarei by making it easier for people to travel.