July 2016

Our investigations on the Ōtaki to north of Levin Project continue in light of recent growth projections and transport trends for the Horowhenua region. We issued a media release about this.

Safety improvements in Manakau and Ōhau

In 2015 we completed significant safety upgrades on State Highway 1 (SH1) through the townships of Manakau and Ōhau. The performance of these improvements will be further monitored and the results shared with local communities and the Horowhenua District Council.

Waitarere curves

Resource Management Act applications were lodged with the Horowhenua District Council for safety improvements of the curves located at Waitarere Beach Road and a hearing occurred on 13 June 2016. A decision on these applications is expected by the end of 2016.

New bridges for Manawatu River Bridge and the Whirokino Trestle

We are working on detailed design for replacement bridges for the Manawatu River Bridge and the Whirokino Trestle. We are also working closely with local iwi and the Horowhenua District Council to determine a suitable name for the new Whirokino Trestle bridge.

The new bridges will carry all High Productivity Motor Vehicle loads (so that trucks no longer need to take a 14km detour via Shannon), improve safety, and provide better walking and cycling facilities. We anticipate construction will start in early 2017 and take approximately two years to complete.

State Highway 1/57 connection

Investigations continue on how our proposal for a new connection between SH1 and State Highway 57 (SH57) fits with the long-term plans to improve SH1 through Horowhenua. This work aims to improve road safety, shorten journey times and enhance reliability for road users on SH1. The Otaki to Levin section of the state highway will link with the Kapiti expressway.

Over the last 18 months we have been collaborating with Horowhenua District Council on its town centre study, which is a key consideration for our on-going investigations. By working together, proposals for transport improvements can be aligned with the Council’s vision for the future of the town centre. Consultation on the town centre work is underway.

Recently the Council advised that their investigations predict greater economic and population growth for Horowhenua than we have allowed for in our investigation work. We are continuing to work with the District Council to understand these high growth projections to appropriately factor this into our investigation work.

The consultation about proposals for improvements to SH1 through Horowhenua will take place after these further investigations have occurred.

Peka Peka to Otaki Expressway

The tender process for the Peka Peka to Otaki Expressway is well under way.  We hope to have this completed and award a construction contract in November this year, with a view to physical work starting in early 2017.

For more information about the Otaki to north of Levin project visit www.nzta.govt.nz