Here you will find everything you need to know about 50MAX – what your vehicle will need to look like, who can help you certify your vehicle, what you need to apply and where you can travel.

On this page:

• 50MAX – am I eligible?

• 50MAX application form

• 50MAX map

• 50MAX book of maps

• 50MAX vehicle designs

• Frequently asked questions

What is 50MAX?

50MAX gives freight operators an option to carry increased payloads on parts of the network that, while economically important to New Zealand, are unable to carry high productivity motor vehicles (HPMVs).

Am I eligible for a 50MAX permit?

Find out if you are eligible for a 50MAX permit with our  50MAX chart .

50MAX application form

Apply for a 50MAX permit online

Please ensure you attach a completed 50MAX ready pro-forma and a  50MAX vehicle combination attribute sheet  for each combination to your application. The attributes check form needs to be completed and signed by a heavy vehicle specialist certifier.

View a list of approved  heavy vehicle specialist certifiers

If you have any problems with the application form, please contact us on  info50MAX@nzta.govt.nz .

Map of 50MAX routes

View our interactive 50MAX map

If you are having trouble viewing the interactive 50MAX map, or if you wish to print individual maps, please view the PDF maps below.

50MAX book of maps

• North Island 
• South Island

North Island maps

• Auckland 
• Bay of Plenty
• Gisborne
• Hawke's Bay
• Manawatu and Whanganui
• Northland 
• Taranaki
• Waikato
• Wellington 

South Island maps

• Canterbury
• Marlborough
• Nelson
• Otago
• Southland
• Tasman
• West Coast

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50MAX vehicle designs

Below are specific details about the configurations and specifications for 50MAX vehicles.

22-metre B-train 50MAX 

Download 22-metre B-train 50MAX 

23-metre B-train 5680 50MAX 

Download 23-metre B-train 5680 50MAX 

23-metre B-train 5700 50MAX 

Download 23-metre B-train 5700 50MAX 

23-metre B-train long tractor 50MAX 

Download 23-metre B-train long tractor 50MAX 

23-metre B-train long trailer 50MAX 

Download 23-metre B-train long trailer 50MAX 

23-metre logging combination 50MAX 

Download 23-metre logging combination 50MAX

23-metre long drawbar 50MAX

  Download 23-metre long drawbar 50MAX 

23-metre truck & full trailer 50MAX 

Download 23-metre truck and trailer 50MAXDownload 23-metre truck and trailer 50MAX

23-metre truck & long full trailer 50MAX 

Download 23-metre truck and long trailer 50MAX

50MAX permit for HPMV to exceed mass limits

23-metre log truck and full trailer – amendment 2014

By attaching this document to your existing 50MAX permit for HPMV to exceed mass limits for log truck and full trailer, this new 23 metre log truck and full trailer design replaces the existing design. Your existing design is now void. Note: This only applies to 50MAX.

New amendment 2014 pro-forma logging truck 23-metres

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Frequently asked questions

What is 50MAX?

50MAX is a new generation of truck that allows for safe and more efficient transport of freight goods. 50MAX trucks are slightly longer than standard 44-tonne vehicles, have an additional axle (9 in total) and can have a total weight of up to 50 tonnes.

Can retractable axles be fitted to my vehicle?

Retractable axles (including suspensions that transfer load from one axle to others outside of load sharing requirements) are not to be fitted, unless configured to only retract when the vehicle is unladen and meets all other legal requirements for retractable axles.  

Are 50MAX trucks replacing the standard 44 tonne trucks?

No. 50MAX is an option for industry to use if they choose. It gives operators another option to carry increased payloads on parts of the network that, while economically important to New Zealand, are unable to carry HPMVs.

Will I need a permit to operate a 50MAX truck?

Yes. The Transport Agency is accepting area-wide 50MAX permit applications for state highways nationwide and most local roads.

Apply for a 50MAX permit online

How long will it take before my permit is issued?

If all the right information has been included with your application it will be processed within five working days.

What gross mass is available under a 50MAX permit?

This depends on the axle spacing – please see table below. 

The shaded columns are the ones to use for the Class 1 table extension for 50MAX.

What about road user charges (RUC) – what do I need to know?

Anyone using New Zealand's roads contributes towards their upkeep. Most road users pay levies in the prices of their fuel. Others, such as drivers of light diesel vehicles and diesel-powered heavy vehicles such as trucks, pay through road user charges (RUC). You may be better off on another RUC type than the one you currently use.

Find out more about RUC

Can I take my 50MAX truck anywhere with my area-wide permit?

No. 50MAX permits will include a list of restricted areas. Please view our  online map for details on where you can and can't travel. This map is updated regularly, so 50MAX operators should always revisit the map before planning their route.

What about local roads in parts of the country that are not cleared on the map?

To drive on local roads that aren't cleared on the map, 50MAX operators will need to apply for higher mass HPMV route permits from local authorities. The local authorities that are not yet signed up for 50MAX can be found in the North Island/South Island 50MAX  book of maps, in the tables at the front of each document.

What are a 50MAX operator's obligations in relation to truck safety?

50MAX can improve road safety because of the reduction in truck trips to move the same amount of freight – fewer trucks on the road will mean a reduction in the crash risk.

50MAX trucks must meet the same high safety standards as other HPMVs, including increased resistance to roll over and the inclusion of electronic braking systems. A number of operators are investing in speed limiting, GPS monitoring, weight load cells, electronic stability control, electronic road-user charges and other safety measures. The Transport Agency recommends that all road transport operators consider the use of such available technology.

What do I need to apply?

There are specific requirements to apply for a 50MAX permit. You will need to:

1. have a 50MAX combination attribute check sheet completed by an approved certifier to confirm you have quality-assured 50MAX pro-forma vehicle

2. complete a 50MAX pro-forma diagram

3. complete the 50MAX web application.

What parts of the state highway are included?

All of the state highways have been assessed for 50MAX, and a number of ‘do not cross bridges’ have been identified. The full list can be found in the tables at the front of the North Island and South Island book of maps.

The Transport Agency is also delivering on a bridge strengthening plan and a number of key bridges are already being strengthened, or identified for strengthening to better support 50MAX and other HPMV. When these bridges become available the maps will be updated.

How do I know if there are changes to the network?

Check the maps on the website  at least monthly to pick up the calendar month update cycle. Urgent changes will be flagged on the road itself (eg during a flood or other event).

The agency also sends out a monthly 50MAX newsletter outlining the major changes occurring each month. If you are a 50MAX permit holder and not receiving this please contact  info50MAX@nzta.govt.nz or call us on 0800 699 000. 

Read past issues of 50MAX update , our 50MAX newsletter

Why do we need more different attribute sheets for the same vehicles?

One of the major causes of errors in HPMV applications was with the existing vehicle attribute check sheets. 50MAX has allowed new processes to be designed with the focus on quick turnaround and simple processing.

To simplify and speed up processing and provide clarity on vehicle performance the 50MAX combination check sheet was developed. The certifier (who is qualified to do this work) states the combination is suitable for 50MAX and confirms the correct gross mass for 50MAX use. This form can also be used for overlength applications.

Costs can be reduced for new vehicles by requesting your certifier to provide all the documentation at once (both individual and combination sheets that are appropriate).

Why are there different permits for the North and South Islands?

As freight journeys across the islands are logically split by the need to cross Cook Strait, it was decided to split the permits to better manage the size of maps and exception lists of bridges and structures, as well as providing the agency with better visibility of how 50MAX is being utilised.

What if part of the network is closed due to weather or another reason?

It is the responsibility of the operator/truck driver to obey all local and state highway restrictions in the normal way. The 50MAX permit is always secondary to any acute changes to route availability. You should check the local sources of journey information as well as for state highways, eg 08004HIGHWAYS and other website and communication channels.

Find more information about current highway conditions

What if I find restrictions on specific structures are really affecting my business?

If there are critical bottlenecks in the 50MAX network we need to know where they are and the demand for them. Please let us know using the  info50MAX@nzta.govt.nz email address.

How can I find out more about 50MAX?

You can email  info50MAX@nzta.govt.nz or call us on 0800 699 000.

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Here you will find everything you need to know about 50MAX – what your vehicle will need to look like, who can help you certify your vehicle, what you need to apply and where you can travel.

On this page:

• 50MAX – am I eligible?

• 50MAX application form

• 50MAX map

• 50MAX book of maps

• 50MAX vehicle designs

• Frequently asked questions

What is 50MAX?

50MAX gives freight operators an option to carry increased payloads on parts of the network that, while economically important to New Zealand, are unable to carry high productivity motor vehicles (HPMVs).

Am I eligible for a 50MAX permit?

Find out if you are eligible for a 50MAX permit with our  50MAX chart .

50MAX application form

Apply for a 50MAX permit online

Please ensure you attach a completed 50MAX ready pro-forma and a  50MAX vehicle combination attribute sheet  for each combination to your application. The attributes check form needs to be completed and signed by a heavy vehicle specialist certifier.

View a list of approved  heavy vehicle specialist certifiers

If you have any problems with the application form, please contact us on  info50MAX@nzta.govt.nz .

Map of 50MAX routes

View our interactive 50MAX map

If you are having trouble viewing the interactive 50MAX map, or if you wish to print individual maps, please view the PDF maps below.

50MAX book of maps

• North Island 
• South Island

North Island maps

• Auckland 
• Bay of Plenty
• Gisborne
• Hawke's Bay
• Manawatu and Whanganui
• Northland 
• Taranaki
• Waikato
• Wellington 

South Island maps

• Canterbury
• Marlborough
• Nelson
• Otago
• Southland
• Tasman
• West Coast

top

50MAX vehicle designs

Below are specific details about the configurations and specifications for 50MAX vehicles.

22-metre B-train 50MAX 

Download 22-metre B-train 50MAX 

23-metre B-train 5680 50MAX 

Download 23-metre B-train 5680 50MAX 

23-metre B-train 5700 50MAX 

Download 23-metre B-train 5700 50MAX 

23-metre B-train long tractor 50MAX 

Download 23-metre B-train long tractor 50MAX 

23-metre B-train long trailer 50MAX 

Download 23-metre B-train long trailer 50MAX 

23-metre logging combination 50MAX 

Download 23-metre logging combination 50MAX

23-metre long drawbar 50MAX

  Download 23-metre long drawbar 50MAX 

23-metre truck & full trailer 50MAX 

Download 23-metre truck and trailer 50MAXDownload 23-metre truck and trailer 50MAX

23-metre truck & long full trailer 50MAX 

Download 23-metre truck and long trailer 50MAX

50MAX permit for HPMV to exceed mass limits

23-metre log truck and full trailer – amendment 2014

By attaching this document to your existing 50MAX permit for HPMV to exceed mass limits for log truck and full trailer, this new 23 metre log truck and full trailer design replaces the existing design. Your existing design is now void. Note: This only applies to 50MAX.

New amendment 2014 pro-forma logging truck 23-metres

top

Frequently asked questions

What is 50MAX?

50MAX is a new generation of truck that allows for safe and more efficient transport of freight goods. 50MAX trucks are slightly longer than standard 44-tonne vehicles, have an additional axle (9 in total) and can have a total weight of up to 50 tonnes.

Can retractable axles be fitted to my vehicle?

Retractable axles (including suspensions that transfer load from one axle to others outside of load sharing requirements) are not to be fitted, unless configured to only retract when the vehicle is unladen and meets all other legal requirements for retractable axles.  

Are 50MAX trucks replacing the standard 44 tonne trucks?

No. 50MAX is an option for industry to use if they choose. It gives operators another option to carry increased payloads on parts of the network that, while economically important to New Zealand, are unable to carry HPMVs.

Will I need a permit to operate a 50MAX truck?

Yes. The Transport Agency is accepting area-wide 50MAX permit applications for state highways nationwide and most local roads.

Apply for a 50MAX permit online

How long will it take before my permit is issued?

If all the right information has been included with your application it will be processed within five working days.

What gross mass is available under a 50MAX permit?

This depends on the axle spacing – please see table below. 

The shaded columns are the ones to use for the Class 1 table extension for 50MAX.

What about road user charges (RUC) – what do I need to know?

Anyone using New Zealand's roads contributes towards their upkeep. Most road users pay levies in the prices of their fuel. Others, such as drivers of light diesel vehicles and diesel-powered heavy vehicles such as trucks, pay through road user charges (RUC). You may be better off on another RUC type than the one you currently use.

Find out more about RUC

Can I take my 50MAX truck anywhere with my area-wide permit?

No. 50MAX permits will include a list of restricted areas. Please view our  online map for details on where you can and can't travel. This map is updated regularly, so 50MAX operators should always revisit the map before planning their route.

What about local roads in parts of the country that are not cleared on the map?

To drive on local roads that aren't cleared on the map, 50MAX operators will need to apply for higher mass HPMV route permits from local authorities. The local authorities that are not yet signed up for 50MAX can be found in the North Island/South Island 50MAX  book of maps, in the tables at the front of each document.

What are a 50MAX operator's obligations in relation to truck safety?

50MAX can improve road safety because of the reduction in truck trips to move the same amount of freight – fewer trucks on the road will mean a reduction in the crash risk.

50MAX trucks must meet the same high safety standards as other HPMVs, including increased resistance to roll over and the inclusion of electronic braking systems. A number of operators are investing in speed limiting, GPS monitoring, weight load cells, electronic stability control, electronic road-user charges and other safety measures. The Transport Agency recommends that all road transport operators consider the use of such available technology.

What do I need to apply?

There are specific requirements to apply for a 50MAX permit. You will need to:

1. have a 50MAX combination attribute check sheet completed by an approved certifier to confirm you have quality-assured 50MAX pro-forma vehicle

2. complete a 50MAX pro-forma diagram

3. complete the 50MAX web application.

What parts of the state highway are included?

All of the state highways have been assessed for 50MAX, and a number of ‘do not cross bridges’ have been identified. The full list can be found in the tables at the front of the North Island and South Island book of maps.

The Transport Agency is also delivering on a bridge strengthening plan and a number of key bridges are already being strengthened, or identified for strengthening to better support 50MAX and other HPMV. When these bridges become available the maps will be updated.

How do I know if there are changes to the network?

Check the maps on the website  at least monthly to pick up the calendar month update cycle. Urgent changes will be flagged on the road itself (eg during a flood or other event).

The agency also sends out a monthly 50MAX newsletter outlining the major changes occurring each month. If you are a 50MAX permit holder and not receiving this please contact  info50MAX@nzta.govt.nz or call us on 0800 699 000. 

Read past issues of 50MAX update , our 50MAX newsletter

Why do we need more different attribute sheets for the same vehicles?

One of the major causes of errors in HPMV applications was with the existing vehicle attribute check sheets. 50MAX has allowed new processes to be designed with the focus on quick turnaround and simple processing.

To simplify and speed up processing and provide clarity on vehicle performance the 50MAX combination check sheet was developed. The certifier (who is qualified to do this work) states the combination is suitable for 50MAX and confirms the correct gross mass for 50MAX use. This form can also be used for overlength applications.

Costs can be reduced for new vehicles by requesting your certifier to provide all the documentation at once (both individual and combination sheets that are appropriate).

Why are there different permits for the North and South Islands?

As freight journeys across the islands are logically split by the need to cross Cook Strait, it was decided to split the permits to better manage the size of maps and exception lists of bridges and structures, as well as providing the agency with better visibility of how 50MAX is being utilised.

What if part of the network is closed due to weather or another reason?

It is the responsibility of the operator/truck driver to obey all local and state highway restrictions in the normal way. The 50MAX permit is always secondary to any acute changes to route availability. You should check the local sources of journey information as well as for state highways, eg 08004HIGHWAYS and other website and communication channels.

Find more information about current highway conditions

What if I find restrictions on specific structures are really affecting my business?

If there are critical bottlenecks in the 50MAX network we need to know where they are and the demand for them. Please let us know using the  info50MAX@nzta.govt.nz email address.

How can I find out more about 50MAX?

You can email  info50MAX@nzta.govt.nz or call us on 0800 699 000.

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If you are issued with an assessment for unpaid RUC you are required to pay the debt within two months, as failure to pay may result in monetary penalties. For example, if you do not pay within two months an additional 10% penalty may be applied and a further 10% if the amount remains unpaid after three months. Penalties also apply for failure to pay after an amended assessment or new assessment is issued.

Review of a RUC assessment

You can apply for a review of a RUC assessment if:

• the assessment is materially incorrect, or
• you, as the owner or operator of the RUC vehicle, were not the person responsible for incurring the unpaid road user charges.

Your application for review, including specific grounds and any evidence you can provide, must be made within 20 working days of the date specified on the assessment to be reviewed.

How to apply for a review

Complete the Application for review of a RUC assessment .

Outcome of theSend us your review

A review may result in:

• a confirmation ofapplication using the original assessment
• a reduction in, or cancellation of the original assessment
• an increase in the amount of the original assessment.  

If the review results in an increase in the amount of unpaid RUC then a new assessment will be issued.

If you disagree with the outcome of a review that confirms or reduces an assessment you may request an independent review.form below

The number of cycle journeys through Kingsland on the Northwestern Cycleway has gone up by more than 16% in 2015 compared with 2014. This has contributed to a growth of 7.4% of cycle journeys throughout Auckland in the same period.

The number of people cycling on this route is expected to increase further with a major upgrade to be completed this year and a city centre cycle network which continues to expand.

The NZ Transport Agency is upgrading the Northwestern Cycleway from Westgate to Waterview as part of the Western Ring Route. The cycleway currently joins the Nelson Street Cycleway and the Grafton Gully Cycleway.

Viv Heslop uses it because it is the quickest way for her to get to work. “I live in Mt Albert and work in Westhaven. I could take the bus which would take me 40 minutes or cycle, which takes me 30 minutes,” she says.

“It’s also a great way to build exercise into my day. The Northwestern Cycleway is fantastic. The more cycleways in Auckland the better.”

There are still diversions at Western Springs and Patiki Rd at the Causeway which will be in place until late February. In early February the section from McCormack Green (just west of the Te Atatu underpass) to Henderson Creek will be open with the completion of the Te Atatu Interchange Project scheduled for March and the Causeway Project scheduled for August.

The Northwestern Cycleway is one of the busiest cycle routes in Auckland says Auckland Transport’s Cycling and Walking manager Kathryn King.

“We know that these routes are popular which is why they are being improved and soon other routes will connect with them to further develop the cycle network,” she says.

“Construction will begin early this year on the Quay St Cycleway and by the middle of the year the Nelson St Cycleway will be completed all the way to Quay St. This is only the start of the three year programme of cycle improvements in the city, so to see an increase like this already is very promising.”

“By mid-2018 we will have an inner city cycle network to be proud of with great connections to the inner east and west suburbs. We are already working on plans for projects beyond 2018 which will further develop the city’s growing network of cycleways,” she adds.

The NZ Transport Agency’s Auckland Regional Director, Ernst Zöllner says the Transport Agency has a target of increasing the annual number of cycling trips across New Zealand by 10 million, or 30 percent by 2019 compared with 2015 levels.

“We’re thrilled to see these figures showing more people are choosing to get on their bikes in Auckland. There is strong customer demand for a cycling network that provides predictable, safe journeys for people wanting to cycle to work, study and for recreation.”
Barb Cuthbert, Chair Bike Auckland says she’s in awe of the stupendous increase in cycling. “We ‘specially love seeing so many families and groups of friends enjoying the city by bike. It’s a real groundswell!”

Auckland Transport has a number of counters across the city to gauge the change in the number of journeys taken by bike.

Auckland Transport, Auckland Council and the NZ Transport Agency are working together on a three year $200 million programme of investment in cycling to make it safer and more convenient to travel by bike. Central government has made a significant contribution to funding through the Urban Cycleways Programme.

View a map of the cycleway

For media inquiries please call:

Mark Hannan, Media Relations Manager, Auckland Transport
021 817 995, mark.hannan@aucklandtransport.govt.nz

Sarah Azam, Media Manager Auckland and Northland, NZ Transport Agency
021 103 9227, sarah.azam@nzta.govt.nz

Regional Journey Manager Graeme Hall says the lower limits are a temporary measure to ensure the safety of drivers until repairs to damaged guardrails can be completed on SH6 at the Lochiel Creek Culvert and the Makarewa Bridge, and on SH94 at the McKellar’s Stream Bridge.

Mr Hall says guardrails at all three sites have been damaged in recent crashes, and the speed restrictions are a temporary safety measure until the guardrails can be fully repaired, with all work expected to be complete within one week.

A 70km/h speed limit is in place at the two SH6 sites, with a 80km/h limit in place at McKellar’s Stream Bridge on SH94.

“We know that these temporary speed limit reductions can be frustrating for drivers, but it’s important that people understand why they are in place and we thank people for their patience and understanding while the work is carried out.”

Building the embankments now will allow land settlement to take place before the Northern Arterial construction gets underway in earnest in late 2016.

Contractors will be on site this week to begin work on the embankments, which will be used to construct a bridge to take traffic on Belfast Road over the Northern Arterial when it is completed.

To make this work possible a temporary road will be built around the site to the south of Belfast Road.

The Northern Arterial project is a new four-lane, median separated highway starting at the existing Christchurch Northern Motorway, south of the Waimakariri River bridges, and runs to the east of Belfast and Redwood, connecting with QEII Drive near Winters Road.

The construction of the Northern Arterial will divert more traffic onto QEII Drive so this road will also be upgraded from two lanes to four, between Main North Road and Innes Road reducing congestion and delays for traffic travelling to the port.

The project also includes the addition of a third northbound lane on the Waimakariri Motorway Bridge through to Tram Road and off-road pedestrian and cycle facilities.

The NZ Transport Agency expects to appoint a team of contractors to build the Northern Arterial in mid-2016, with construction expected to start before the end of the year 2016.

More info on the Northern Arterial can be found at www.nzta.govt.nz/northern-arterial.

Each year, between October and March, we survey the condition of our highways. We do this using a specialist vehicle called ‘SCRIM+’ (Sideway-force Coefficient Routine Investigation Machine). SCRIM+ collects data on range of condition aspects, which allows us to respond to any arising maintenance issues and helps ensure road users continue to travel safely.

Check the table below for the survey start and end dates for the  2015/16 SCRIM+ survey programme in each area.

On the 29 November 2015 toll prices on the Northern Gateway Toll Road were increased to $2.30 for cars, motorcycles and other light vehicles, and $4.70 for all heavy vehicles.

Check out our FAQs for more information on the toll price increase, or the media release .

A short detour will be in place on SH73 at Mingha Bluff from January 15-22, to allow contractors to safely lower the road around the bluff. The detour will take the road over the railway line (to the north) for about 500m. The detour will reduce the road to a single lane, with temporary traffic lights managing traffic.

When a train is using the track, gates and other safety measures will be used to ensure no one is using the detour. This detour may cause delays of up to 10 minutes when a train is passing through, with shorter delays at other times.

The work is part of the SH73 Mingha Bluff to Rough Creek Realignment, just east of Arthur's Pass Township. The first sod was turned on this $22 million project in May 2015 and it is expected to take around two years to complete.

The project will improve safety on a 5km length of SH73 from Mingha Bluff to Rough Creek which is narrow at many points and has tight corners that restrict visibility for road users.

The project will provide a safer and more forgiving route, with many tight curves removed, dips and hollows smoothed and a wider 9m carriageway.

Other safety works are also being carried out on SH73 beginning next week. Pavement repairs and improvements at Craigieburn, Porters Pass and Joines Cutting on the Canterbury side of SH73 will be carried out from Monday January 18 to Friday January 22.

Some delays are also possible on the West Coast side with rock face stabilisation work, including the installation of netting, to be carried out at Starvation Point from Sunday January 17 until the end of February.

Transport Agency Journey Manager Lee Wright says travellers could experience delays of up to 30 minutes.

“We know that delays like this can be frustrating and inconvenient, but our work crews need to make the best use of the summer weather and the longer daylight hours to get this crucial work done. The warm and dry conditions of summer are the best conditions to carry out repairs and maintenance to the highway surface to keep it safe all year round.”

Ms Wright thanked all drivers for taking care near work crews and building in extra time to their SH73 journeys.

The Transport Agency thanks motorists for their patience and apologises for any inconvenience.

Effluent from a truck spilled across the southbound lanes around 10.30 this morning.

A water tanker and sweeper truck have removed the effluent and all lanes are now open, but those vehicles that passed through the area should ensure they remove any effluent they may have picked up through the area.

“We’d hate for anyone’s vehicle to be damaged by this effluent so our advice would be to use a garden hose to wash the paint and the undercarriage of your vehicle, and be careful not to use your bare hands” says Mieszko Iwaskow Acting Auckland Highway Manager.

Traffic in the area is still heavy.

The four-lane section of road will be remarked as three lanes, with room for a flush central median to separate oncoming traffic. A wire rope barrier will be installed at the central changeover point.

Passing lanes will be retained south-bound for 1km from the new roundabout being built at the SH3/21 intersection. Similarly there will be two lanes north-bound from Kaipaki Road for 1km.

Similar work was done on the same road closer to Te Awamutu last year.

The six-week job is set to get underway on 20 January and also includes 1.2km of major roadworks south of the new roundabout which is now under construction.

Line marking and wire rope installation will follow, with completion in late February. The roundabout project will be completed by late May.

The Transport Agency says speed restrictions will be in place during the work, and while the roundabout is built, so motorists on this route should add a few minutes to their journey times.

Transport Agency highway manager Kaye Clark says the road works, lane marking and barrier installation have been rolled together to save time and cost and minimise disruption.

“We also have the roundabout under way nearby so it makes sense to get all this work done at once,” she says.

“It’s all about creating a safer environment for road users. The new layout will provide greater separation between oncoming traffic,” she says.

“People will still have ample opportunities to pass, traffic turning into properties will have more room, and cyclists get a wider shoulder to ride on.”

There are few four-lane stretches of highway in the country without a median barrier and with direct access to properties.

“Last year we made similar changes on this stretch of highway further south and removed the side-by-side passing lanes. Despite some people’s initial misgivings this has improved safety and not affected travel times,” Mrs Clark says.

“We know it takes a little while to get use to a new layout and the need to plan when you can pass safely.

“Since we changed the layout and installed the 700m wire rope barrier near Jary Road in April last year there have been three strikes on the wire. So that barrier has saved three vehicles from crossing into the opposite lane.”

SH3 between Airport Road (SH21) and Kaipaki Road has seen many crashes over the years. Transport Agency records show 15 crashes in the past five years, including two serious. 

During the work traffic will be down to single lanes in both directions. Work will be done during the day, avoiding peak times, and two-way traffic will be maintained at all times. 

Police have closed the road after a serious truck crash near Kererungu Road, reports are that the truck is on fire. The highway is expected to be closed for some time while the crash scene is attended to by emergency services. No detours are available and travellers are advised to delay their journeys.

We thank people for their patience and understanding.

Updates will be issued on the NZ Transport Agency's Canterbury/West Coast Twitter feed - @nztacwc

For more information please call 0800 4 highways or visit www.highwayinfo.govt.nz

For daily updated closure information click here

NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

• Esmonde Road northbound off ramp, 17 - 18 January (approx 11:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Esmonde Road southbound on ramp 21 January (approx 11:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Shelly Beach Road southbound off ramp 20 - 21 January 

CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (SH1 & SH16)

• (SH16) Nelson Street eastbound off ramp 18 - 21 January
• (SH16) eastbound to (SH1) northbound link 18 - 21 January 

SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

• Gillies Avenue northbound on ramp, 17 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Northbound lanes between Greenlane off ramp and Greenlane on ramp, 19 January (approx 10:30p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Ellerslie-Panmure Highway northbound on ramp, 17 - 21 January (approx 8:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• SEART southbound off ramp, 19 January
• Mt Wellington Highway southbound off ramp, 21 January (approx 10:30p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Northbound lanes between Princes Street off ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on ramp, 17 January
• Princes Street northbound on ramp, 17 January (approx 8:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• East Tamaki Road northbound off ramp, 19 January
• East Tamaki Road northbound on ramp, 19 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Redoubt Road southbound on ramp, 17 & 19 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Southbound lanes between Manukau off ramp and Takanini on ramp, 17 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• (SH1) southbound to (SH20) northbound link, 19 January
• Hill Road northbound on ramp, 17 & 21  January
• Takanini northbound on ramp, 18 - 21 January
• Ramarama northbound on ramp, 20 January (approx 8:30p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Southbound lanes between Bombay off ramp and Bombay on ramp, 20 January
• Beaver Road northbound on ramp, 20 January (approx 8:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Nikau Road northbound on ramp, 20 January (approx 8:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)

NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)

• Westbound lanes between Te Atatu Road off ramp and Brigham Creek Road Roundabout, 20 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Lincoln Road westbound on ramp, 20 January
• Lincoln Road eastbound on ramp, 17 - 19 January
• Eastbound lanes between Lincoln Road off ramp and Te Atatu Peninsula on ramp, 17 - 19 January
• Eastbound lanes between Te Atatu Road off ramp and Te Atatu Peninsula on ramp, 20 – 21 January
• Westbound lanes between Te Atatu Road off ramp and Lincoln Road on ramp, 17 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Te Atatu Road westbound on ramp, 17 & 20 January
• Te Atatu Road eastbound on ramp, 17 - 21 January
• Westbound lanes between Te Atatu Road off ramp and Te Atatu Road on ramp, 18 – 19 & 21 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Westbound lanes between Great North Road off ramp and Te Atatu Road on ramp 21 January (approx 11:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Westbound lanes between Great North Road off ramp and Patiki Road on ramp 19 - 20 January (approx 11:00PM to 5:30AM)
• Rosebank Road westbound off ramp 21 January
• Westbound lanes between Rosebank Road off ramp and Patiki Road on ramp 17 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 6:00a.m.)
• Great North Road westbound on ramp 18 - 21 January
• Eastbound lanes between Great North Road off ramp and Western Springs on ramp 17 - 18 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Great North Road eastbound on ramp 17 - 18 January
• Westbound lanes between St Lukes Road off ramp and Great North Road on ramp 17 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• Westbound lanes between St Lukes Road off ramp and Patiki Road on ramp 18 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)
• St Lukes Road westbound off ramp 19 - 21 January
• St Lukes Road westbound on ramp 17 - 21 January
• Western Springs eastbound on ramp 19 - 21 January 

SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)

• Southbound lanes between Lambie Drive off ramp and SH1, 17 January
• Lambie Drive southbound on ramp, 17 January
• Neilson Street northbound on ramp, 20 January
• Northbound lanes between Neilson Street off ramp and Hillsborough Road on ramp, 20 January (approx 10:00p.m. to 5:00a.m.)

 Please follow the signposted detours. The NZTA thanks you for your co-operation during these essential improvements and maintenance.

Be Smart. Plan ahead.

We have chosen a selection of useful links to help inform your travel choices this summer.

View a list of current and planned roadworks in Canterbury

Use our map to see live updates and webcams of traffic conditions in Canterbury.

View a list of current and planned roadworks in Christchurch 

Use Transport for Christchurch website to see what roadworks there are that may disrupt your travel plans.

SH73 planned and current works

Work on this major project to improve safety is about to kick off with gusto. While we will do our best to keep disruption to a minimum it will be necessary to one-lane sections of SH73. 

Travelling around Christchurch? 

Use Transport for Christchurch website to keep up-to-date on all your travel requirements.

Holiday & New Year Congestion Hotspot information

Want to know the best times to hit the road and avoid those annoying jams? We've done all the hard work for you.

View OnTheMove

Do you want to know before you hit the state highway whether there's anything that could delay your arrival at your destination?  Then the travel information service OnTheMove is for you.

Get social

Follow us on Facebook or Twitter but don't keep this sweet info to yourself. Let your friends and family know by sharing Summer Journeys information.

Be Smart. Plan ahead.

We have chosen a selection of useful links to help inform your travel choices this summer.

View a list of current and planned roadworks in the West Coast

Use our map to see live updates and webcams of traffic conditions in your region.

SH73 planned and current works

Work on this major project to improve safety is about to kick off with gusto. While we will do our best to keep disruption to a minimum it will be necessary to one-lane sections of SH73. 

Holiday & New Year Congestion Hotspot information

Want to know the best times to hit the road and avoid those annoying jams? We've done all the hard work for you.

View OnTheMove

Do you want to know before you hit the state highway whether there's anything that could delay your arrival at your destination?  Then the travel information service OnTheMove is for you.

Get social

Follow us on Facebook or Twitter but don't keep this sweet info to yourself. Let your friends and family know by sharing Summer Journeys information.

Traffic bulletins provide a brief overview of likely traffic disruptions for the following week. Full closures are also advertised in the Weekend Herald. Traffic bulletins are complemented by monthly construction updates and quarterly newsletters.There are no notices at this time.  Please check back later for up to date information on planned road closures and traffic disruptions in the Project area.

NZ Transport Agency work crews are resuming the busy summer construction and maintenance programme after a break during the Christmas and New Year holidays to reduce potential delays for people wanting to travel to holiday hot spots.

That means motorists will encounter speed restrictions, detours and some delays.

'Summer is a really busy time for us when we try to make the most of the warm, dry weather to reseal and maintain roads across the region,' says Mieszko Iwaskow, the Transport Agency’s Acting Northland Highway Manager.

'We are working hard to inform motorists of their options. This will help them to get into habit of allowing extra time for their journeys and planning ahead to know where the works are that might affect them.'

People can find out information about road works and detours by checking out www.nzta.govt.nz/summerjourneys  by calling 0800 444 449 or following the Transport Agency on Facebook, nztaakl or Twitter @nztaakl.

Works across Northland include

• SH12 Maropiu 3
• SH12 Parore West Road
• SH14 Charles Walton
• SH14 Tangihua
• SH1 Pakaraka & Ohaewai
• Hikurangi Bypass
• SH16 Pipitiwai Safety Improvements

'We ask motorists to take extra care and slow down through road works and respect the reduced speed limits because we want everyone including work crews to stay safe this summer,' says Mr Iwaskow.

To understand the effect that speeding through road works has on everyone who uses the highway network check out this video.  www.nzta.govt.nz/summerjourneys-be-safe