Motorists are being advised to plan ahead as significant overnight roadworks and a four‑month ramp closure affect a key Tauranga connection.

Four nights of work will take place from Sunday, January 18, on the ramp from State Highway 29 (Takitimu Drive Toll Rd) to State Highway 2 Takitimu Drive, with stop/go traffic management in operation while crews build temporary lanes.

From Thursday, January 22, traffic will be shifted on to a temporary lane that is set to remain in place for about four months as construction continues as part of the Takitimu North Link project.

“During this time, both SH29 and SH2 traffic would still be able to travel northbound on to SH2 Takitimu Drive,” an NZTA spokesperson said.

“However, traffic from SH29 to 15th Ave would be detoured via SH2 Takitimu Drive to Elizabeth St.

“SH2 traffic will still be able to travel to 15th Ave.”

The diversion was to allow construction of new lanes as part of the Takitimu North Link project.

Off-ramp to 15th Ave closed until late April

The changes coincide with the closure of the SH29/Takitimu Drive Toll Rd off‑ramp on to SH2/15th Ave, which will remain closed from Sunday, January 18, through to late April 2026.

During the closure, contractors will focus on building an additional traffic lane and installing foundations for new overhead signage gantries.

Enabling future connections

The ramp closure and temporary traffic arrangements were needed to allow construction of new lanes and infrastructure to support future network improvements.

A new connection from SH2/15th Ave to Takitimu Drive/SH29 would be delivered as part of the Takitimu North Link project, improving access for people travelling between Tauranga, Te Puna, Tauriko and the Lower Kaimai area.

Further information and regular updates are available through the project newsletter and information sheets provided by the transport agency.