Roadworks and traffic plans have been revised, and it is confirmed that State Highway 1 Transmission Gully will be closed to southbound traffic this weekend.

The southbound closure will be in place from 10 am, Friday 28 November, until 4:30 am, Monday 1 December, weather permitting. There will also be a northbound lane closure on the motorway, which is expected to cause delays for northbound traffic.

Southbound traffic will need to detour via State Highway 59 while the closure is in place.

Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says people need to prepare for long queues and travel delays, and should try to avoid the peak congestion times expected on Sunday afternoon.

“Travel will be affected by these works, and also by Kāpiti Line bus replacements, as well as various events happening on the Kāpiti Coast.”

“These are major works on a key part of our state highway network. An impact on traffic is unavoidable, and it is essential that drivers are prepared for it,” Mr Owen says.

He says it is critical that people drive to the conditions and respect other road users.

“Merge like a zip and let other vehicles in at points where the motorway is reduced to a single lane, as this really helps the flow of traffic.”

We have identified problems, such as pinch points on the SH59 detour route, and we have taken steps to address them.”

“We will have extra staff on duty to manage traffic, and we will close off the SH59 Link Road, which we saw added to congestion for traffic trying to use the detour route,” Mr Owen says.

He acknowledges this is a busy time of the year but says it is the best time to get the repairs done.

“This must be done during the warmer summer weather. It cannot be done during winter, as the repairs would not work. We also want to get the drainage work completed so the motorway can be open to traffic during the busier Christmas/New Year holiday period.”

Mr Owen also warns there are other factors this weekend that will affect traffic that people must consider if they are travelling between Wellington and the Kāpiti Coast.

“There are Metlink bus replacements all day on Saturday and Sunday, and a number of events in Wellington city, and out of town.

“Think carefully about your travel plans this weekend. If possible, avoid travelling between Kāpiti and Wellington. At the very least, try to avoid busy periods like late afternoon and early evening on Saturday and Sunday,” Mr Owen says.