Building durable roads is something that we’ve been doing at least since Roman times, and possibly stretching back even before then. Turns out the Romans knew a thing or to about the science of building roads, 2000 years later and incredibly many are still in functional condition. What the Roman engineers didn’t know about sub-strata, base course and surfacing wasn’t worth knowing. They also knew how important their roads were – literally the arteries that allowed them to keep the Empire running.

At National Road Carriers, one of the things we hear most frequently about is of course, roads. Members are in constant touch with the team, letting us know if roads are closed or open, telling us about accidents and slips, and what condition the pavement is in after rehabilitation. Like the Romans, turns out your average NRC member is something of a roading expert. 

Our state highways may not last as long as the Roman roads, but we are clearly on the right track to a longer lasting and better maintained network.

Regions the focus of this summer’s road rebuilding

And clearly Andrew and the team at NZTA have been busy, with the summer works schedule being announced  this week. Thanks to a dedicated $2.07 billion fund, NZTA is delivering over 2,100 lane kilometres nationwide, similar in volume to last summer’s record effort.

Nearly 300 lane kilometres of brand new roads are being laid, with a strong focus on regions like Taranaki, the West Coast, Otago, and Southland. The innovative Tīrau to Waiouru project is also making great progress, combining road rebuilding with advanced asphalt surfacing.

The goal? Fewer potholes, less disruption, and stress-free travel all year round. New risk-based traffic management means roadworks will be more efficient and less intrusive—reducing downtime and detours for transport operators.

This investment isn’t just about better roads—it’s about supporting local communities, boosting productivity, and unlocking economic growth.

Another boost to SH1 road freight as Otaki to north of Levin expressway now underway

Construction started this week on the 24-kilometre Ō2NL expressway, a major upgrade to State Highway 1 that’s set to deliver real benefits for the Horowhenua and lower North Island. This project is a long-awaited fix for congestion and safety issues, and it’s especially important for freight—offering a more reliable, efficient route for moving goods through the region. Evening peak travel times are expected to drop by up to 15 minutes between Ōtaki and north of Levin, which means faster, more predictable journeys for freight operators.

Ō2NL is the next key link in the Wellington northern corridor, following the proven success of other expressway projects. Alongside supporting local growth, it’s a clear example of investment in infrastructure that directly benefits the freight sector and the wider economy. Completion is targeted for the end of 2029.

Justin, Chief Executive, National Road Carriers Assn