NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) will begin significant asphalt works on the Waikato Expressway near Cambridge this Sunday, with motorists encouraged to plan ahead for significant delays.

Roger Brady, NZTA Regional Manager Maintenance and Operations in Waikato and Bay of Plenty, says the 16km section of State Highway 1 (SH1) between Cambridge and Tamahere will be reconstructed with new asphalt, equating to 62 lane kilometres of work.

The work will be completed in 5km stages starting March and is expected to finish in late 2026. The rebuilding of the structural layers topped with open grade porous asphalt (OGPA) is designed to keep the expressway safe, resilient and ready for future growth.  

“While this section has received maintenance in recent years, we are completing this work now to ensure the expressway is providing the level of service people have come to expect,” Mr Brady says. 

“We understand how important this route is for the region, and this work is designed to deliver a durable, high‑quality pavement.” 

Mr Brady acknowledges that the pavement has experienced challenges due to increasing volumes of vehicles and loads. 

“We know people have seen repairs along this stretch, and unfortunately the pavement, particularly in the slow lanes, has deteriorated faster than expected. Completing this comprehensive upgrade now will reduce the need for repeated maintenance and provide a smoother and safer journey for everyone.” 

Enabling works will begin overnight tonight (Monday 23 February), ahead of the main construction programme beginning this Sunday (1 March).  

The main construction programme will see work completed in 5km sections starting at the southern interchange (near Tīrau Road) in the 2 southbound lanes. During this time all southbound traffic will be shifted onto one northbound lane, allowing for one lane in each direction.  

The contractor will use this same method as they move through 6 stages of work.

Staged closures of the on and off ramps at the Victoria Road Interchange (Hautapu) and Northern Interchange (near Cambridge Road) will be required for stages 3,4,5 and 6. That work is currently planned for between June and October. More information around exact timing and alternative routes will be communicated ahead of time. 

Work will be carried out day and night 6 days a week, weather permitting, to complete the programme as efficiently as possible. 

Lane closures will be in place 24/7, and motorists should expect significant delays during peak travel times. Other planned maintenance across the Waikato network may add to journey times.  

Mr Brady says NZTA is working closely with contractor Fulton Hogan to minimise impacts where possible.  

“This is a busy section of state highway, and we know the works will be disruptive for regular commuters. We’ve worked with our contractors to ensure the approach is as safe and efficient as possible - minimising the amount of merging manoeuvres required which typically add to delays - while producing a high-quality outcome. 

“Drivers can help keep traffic flowing steadily by merging considerately and early and travelling at the 70km/h speed limit through the site. When everyone shows courtesy, delays can be reduced for road users,” he says.  

“Please plan ahead, allow extra time for your journey, and take care when travelling through work sites. We appreciate the patience of road users while we complete this essential upgrade.” 

Meanwhile, planning is underway for resurfacing works at the southbound passing lane on SH1, just before Kentucky Road in Karāpiro. These works are expected to get underway in early to mid-March and will likely involve a period of night works with stop/go traffic management. Further information will be provided once confirmed.