Motorists are being reminded to expect disruption through January as an intensive construction programme gets under way at the State Highway 29 (SH29)/Cambridge Rd intersection.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said January 2026 marks a major milestone for the Tauriko Enabling Works project, with crews using the quieter summer period to push ahead with key stages of the intersection upgrade.

The agency has dubbed the effort “Super January”, taking advantage of lower traffic volumes and the absence of school buses to complete as much work as possible during this period.

Acting Regional Manager Infrastructure Delivery Darryl Coalter said the programme includes removing temporary sheet piles, earthworks, relocating utilities, road construction and resurfacing.

“To do this safely, we’ll need to close a short section of the northbound lane on Cambridge Road, from the SH29 intersection to 579 Cambridge Road, from Saturday 3 January until early February,” Coalter said.

“All Bethlehem-bound vehicles will need to detour via SH29 Takitimu Drive Toll Road or SH29A and Cameron Road. The southbound lane will remain open.”

Coalter acknowledged the disruption but said crews would work extended hours to reduce the overall impact.

“This short-term inconvenience will mean less disruptions in the future.”

Work underway on a major retaining wall at the intersection of SH29 and Cambridge Rd. Photo / Supplied

Work will take place seven days a week, with some extended shifts from 7am to midnight and night works between 6pm and 5am.

The SH29/Cambridge Rd intersection upgrade began in late 2024 with the construction of a 210m retaining wall supported by temporary sheet piles. The first stage of removing those piles is already under way behind safety barriers, with no impact on traffic.

Further removal work in early January will take place in a narrower section of Cambridge Rd, prompting the temporary lane closure.

Once the January programme is completed, construction will move on to road widening and pavement works. The full upgrade is expected to be finished in 2027 and is aimed at delivering a safer and more efficient intersection for all road users.

What you need to know:

Cambridge Rd northbound lane 24/7 closure from Saturday 3 January, and reopens early February, ahead of the school year commencing.

Northbound detour: Bethlehem-bound traffic via SH29 Takitimu Drive Toll Road (adds 15 mins, toll applies) or SH29A/Cameron Rd (adds 22 mins, free route).

Cambridge Rd southbound lane: Remains open.

Cambridge Rd right-turn bay closure: Cambridge Road to SH29 – Kaimai Range/Hamilton-bound traffic must turn left onto SH29, then use SH29/SH36 roundabout to change direction.

Temporary speed limits: 60km/h on SH29 approaches; 30km/h on Cambridge Rd near the work site.

Resident access: Via detours; vehicles exiting driveways within the closure must turn left onto SH29 and follow the detour.

“NZTA appreciates the patience of residents and road users while we complete this important work,” Coalter said.

More information: www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/tauriko-west/tauriko-enabling-works

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