With winter now here, the Takitimu North Link project crews are shifting focus from bulk earthworks to building structures, environmental controls, planting, and drainage, NZTA Waka Kotahi said.

"When the ground is very wet, there’s a risk to safety and the environment to keep doing earthworks, but the rest of the project remains in full swing," NZTA said.

"We have six bridges under construction at SH2/Fifteenth Ave, SH29 Takitimu Drive Toll Road (TDTR), Smiths Farm, Wairoa River and Minden Gully, and work on these will continue for the remainder of the year.

"Our drainage crew are installing three large culverts between Cambridge Road and SH29/TDTR over winter, as well as local network drainage in the Te Mete area.

"During these wetter months, our environmental team is continually checking the site and working alongside crews to ensure all the environmental controls in place are holding up under diverse weather conditions."

There are three bridges under construction over Minden Gully. The main alignment deck (centre) will be poured over the coming weeks and the off-ramp (left) is in use for construction vehicles. Photo / NZTA Waka Kotahi.

Winter is here

Winter has arrived, bringing colder temperatures, wet conditions, and shorter daylight hours - all of which make construction more challenging.

"Over the next few months, there will be times when our teams can’t complete work as planned," NZTA said.

Despite being prepared, weather conditions - especially in winter - can cause delays.

"Fortunately, our teams are experienced and well equipped to handle these seasonal challenges.

"When poor weather is expected to impact construction, we’ll shift the work by a few days. Our crews will then make up for lost time wherever possible, including making the most of overnight work."

NZTA said some elements of the work need warmer temperatures to comply with industry standards. This means the final surface of asphalt can’t be placed until the weather warms up later in the year.

"We’d also like to remind everyone winter weather can make driving conditions more difficult.

"If you're travelling through our work sites, please slow down, stay alert, and pay close attention to our crews and temporary signage."

Rolling blocks – what are they and why do NZTA Waka Kotahi use them?

Motorists may see one of the large traffic management trucks slowly moving along the state highway with flashing lights and a big “X” lit up on the back.

"These are called rolling blocks, and they’re used to alert drivers that something is happening up ahead - like a work site being set up or our crew are on foot ahead of them," NZTA said.

"As you approach, you might first notice a smaller vehicle parked on the roadside with an electronic sign warning of changes ahead. Then you’ll see the large traffic truck moving slowly with all its lights flashing."

Rolling blocks are used to alert drivers that something is happening up ahead - like a work site being set up or the NZTA Waka Kotahi crew are on foot ahead of them. Photo / Waka Kotahi

"Interestingly, by the time you pass, you might not see any work happening," NZTA said.

That’s because the team has often already completed their task or moved off the road—thanks to the rolling block keeping them safe.

"So, if you come across one of these vehicles, please slow down, stay alert, and be patient. Someone is out there working to improve the road for all of us."