Road crews across the Bay of Plenty are shifting focus toward strengthening key routes as winter approaches.

A range of maintenance works have been planned and were underway across Tauranga and the wider region.

While colder temperatures, shorter days and unpredictable weather naturally slow construction, New Zealand Transport Agency said crews were using the lead-in to winter to prepare the network for tougher conditions.

This included reinforcing vulnerable road surfaces, clearing drainage systems and stockpiling grit and de-icing materials to reduce the risk of potholes and keep state highways safe and reliable through the colder months.

In Tauranga, several major projects were set to begin in the coming weeks.

Overnight maintenance was planned on the SH2 Chapel St overbridge on May 10, alongside resurfacing work on Takitimu Drive between Chapel St and Elizabeth St from May 17.

Further west, Poripori Rd would be closed for around eight weeks from May 11 to allow slip repairs, with detours in place via SH29, Cambridge Rd and SH2.

Night works were also scheduled at the SH29/Cambridge Rd intersection from May 10, while drainage improvements on the Kaimai Range would run from May 12–17, with lane changes and reduced speeds in place.

Elsewhere in the region, chipsealing near Duncan Rd in Paengaroa would take place during the day due to cooler overnight temperatures, with stop-go traffic management expected.

Meanwhile, several projects were already underway. Strengthening work at Ruahihi Bluffs on the Kaimai Range was nearing completion, improving resilience against slips and rockfalls.

Construction activity continues across Tauriko, Ōmanawa and along Takitimu Drive as part of the Takitimu North Link project, with reduced speed limits, lane shifts and diversions in place.

Motorists were also being advised to expect delays near SH2/F15th Ave and Maungatapu Bridge, where investigation and upgrade works are ongoing.

NZTA urged drivers to check travel updates before heading out, as weather conditions may impact planned works and timings throughout the winter maintenance programme.