Waka Kotahi Update
Signs indicating road works are ahead have been around in some form for hundreds of years, and for the crews working on those sites it is a sign to think about your speed to make sure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.
Roadworks are a necessary part of keeping the state highway network operational and the associated traffic management is necessary to keep everyone safe, says Roger Brady, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Bay of Plenty System Manager, Maintenance and Operations.
“At almost every worksite we set up a reduced speed limit is in place for the work area, including safety areas before and after, to ensure road users are driving at a speed that will keep our crews safe, especially when they are working right next to live traffic.
“Our crews are telling us that they have noticed a significant increase in non-compliance with temporary speed limits over recent weeks, which has coincided with increased traffic volumes since the new school term commenced. This is a worrying trend, and this behaviour puts our people at risk should someone make a mistake.
Contractors across the Bay of Plenty region have also noticed the increase in speeds near their worksites. Their message is simple - if everyone drives at the correct speed past worksites it makes crews on site feel safe, which makes them work more productively. Everyone is working hard and wants to go home to loved ones afterwards. Everyone in the Bay of Plenty community has a part to play in keeping crews safe.
Next summer will be another busy period for the region, with $25 million being invested into state highway maintenance, along with the infrastructure project delivery and works delivered by the local Councils.
Mr Brady recommends that road users check the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner before heading out. “Our Journey Planner is the most up-to-date source of information for work taking place on the state highway network. Keep yourself informed and plan your journey to minimise any potential disruption or delays.”
Rotorua work:
- SH33 Te Ngae Junction to Paengaroa: Safety improvement upgrade work continues on the section north of Pareteiro - Sun Valley Curve passing lane. This includes widening the shoulders, installing a wide centreline and installing roadside safety barriers. More information.
Check the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz) before you travel for up-to-date information.
Waka Kotahi thanks motorists for their patience while we complete this essential work to keep the state highways safe and resilient.
Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey. Keep up to date with:
- Traffic updates: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic
- Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWaikatoBoP
- Twitter: twitter.com/WakaKotahiWaiBP
- Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz
- Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)