This season, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is investing in a significant road rebuild programme across the Waikato, alongside many resealing and resurfacing sites throughout the region.

This work is in addition to our regular summer maintenance, which ensures the network remains safe, reliable, and fit for purpose.

This significant investment will mean you see a lot more activity out on the roads, especially during the peak summer. This investment aligns with the Government Policy Statement land transport (GPS 2024) by demonstrating improved network condition, preventing further deterioration, reducing costs, and minimising disruptions. 

Waikato System Manager at NZTA Andrew Oakley says that from now through to the end of March 2026 people will see increased activity on the roads as crews carry out vital summer renewal work. 

“This summer, we’re targeting the renewal of approximately 112 lane kilometres across the Waikato, excluding the State Highway 1 Tīrau to Waiouru project.

“This work is essential to maintain the quality and safety of our state highways and to ensure all road users have a smoother and safer journey on the network.”

At least 10 road rebuilds are in the planning phase, alongside widespread asphalt resurfacing across all corridors. 

“Last year, we rebuilt around 49km of SH1 between Tīrau and Waiouru and by the end of the project in 2026, we’ll have rebuilt 66km of SH1 in total. This work is lifting the road to a much higher standard, meaning less disruptions and less maintenance needed in the future.

“We’re also tackling the Coromandel Peninsula, including the Coromandel Recovery Programme and repairs to the SH25 Boundary Creek Bridge. Given the upcoming peak summer season, we’re taking a careful and considered approach to this programme to minimise disruption.

“We know that any closures on the state highway network are inconvenient, however it’s important that we’re able to get essential rebuild work done when it needs to in the warmer weather, so that we can complete the work faster, ensuring a resilient network that continues to provide those all-important connections.”