Emergency works on State Highway 2, between Bruce Road and Domain Road, will be undertaken this afternoon as emergency repairs continue on the road surface.

Lane diversions and speed restrictions will be in place and motorists are being asked to drive with caution.

As part of the NZ Transport Agency's (NZTA) Tauranga Eastern Link project, pre-load material (sand) is being laid adjacent to the highway to compact the ground beneath so it can provide a firm base on which the new road will be constructed.

Bay of Plenty state highway manager Brett Gliddon says the weight of the pre-load and the associated settlement is causing cracks along this section of the highway.

'It is anticipated that some cracking to sections of this road surface may continue to occur until the pre-load is removed in approximately 12 months' time.”

The northbound and southbound lanes will be moved across to one side and a 50km/h speed restriction will be in place.

Night works will be carried out from 7pm and at various times during these works a manual stop/go will be in place for southbound traffic only.

Some delays may be experienced, says Brett.

Daytime works will continue over the weekend with completion expected to be on Monday, July 16, weather dependent.

Brett says motorists are advised to plan their journeys ahead of time and take extra care as delays are to be expected.