Two lanes are now open at the Kaituna Bridge on State Highway 2, east of Te Puke.

NZ Transport Agency highways manager Brett Gliddon says both lanes across the Kaituna Bridge were opened this morning.

He says the lane are operating without manual or signalised traffic management in place.

'But the 30 km/h speed restriction will remain until the bridge strengthening and maintenance works are complete.

'This bridge strengthening work is being undertaken by the Transport Agency to enable this route to carry High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs), it is expected to be completed at the end of June this year.” Brett says the Transport Agency appreciates the patience shown by motorists, the community and local residents despite the inconvenience at peak times.