The NZ Transport Agency is commencing emergency works next week on the Ohineangaanga Stream bridge on Jellicoe Street in Te Puke.

NZTA acting Tauranga state highways manager Richard Young says the works are necessary to protect the State Highway 2 road bridge from further scour damage following flood damage caused earlier this year.

The work involves reshaping the existing stream to a new profile and using material to stabilise the streambed.

Retaining walls are also being constructed along vulnerable sections of the river bank.

In addition, the raised metal-structure footway running alongside the road bridge is to be removed.

The low-level footbridge will be closed during construction due to minor modifications to the bridge.

The majority of works will be carried out away from the road, over a period of about four months, with minimal disruption to traffic expected.