Work to stabilise a slip below Ōropi Rd will begin on Monday, with motorists warned to expect delays while construction is underway.

The project focuses on strengthening a section of road shoulder between the SH29A roundabout and Maleme St, a key route linking Tauranga and Ōropi, Tauranga City Council said in a media statement.

Contractors will construct a 60m-long, 6m-high rock wall down to the Waiorohi Stream to secure the bank and prevent further erosion.

The council said the work has been staged to limit disruption, with the most intensive phase scheduled during the school holidays from July 6 to July 19 to reduce the impact on peak commuter and school traffic.

Major works on Ōropi Rd will include a 60m rock wall to secure the bank. Photo / Tauranga City Council

Lane closures and detours

The Ōropi-bound (southbound) lane will be closed 24 hours a day between Maleme St and SH29A during the first two weeks of construction.

The council said traffic heading towards Ōropi will be detoured via Chadwick Rd and Cameron Rd, while temporary traffic lights and a 30km/h speed restriction will be in place through the work site.

The city-bound (northbound) lane will remain open at all times, and Maleme St and sections of Ōropi Rd north of the closure will continue to operate in both directions.

The most disruptive phase of construction is taking place during the school holidays to reduce impact to peak commuter and school traffic. Image / Tauranga City Council

From July 20 through August, both lanes are expected to reopen with reduced speed limits in place.

The council said further disruption is anticipated in late August and September, when nighttime closures of the Ōropi-bound lane are planned for final roadworks.

Network pressure expected

Drivers are being warned to expect congestion not only on Ōropi Rd but also across surrounding routes, including SH29A.

The council said a one-day full closure in late April caused widespread disruption across Tauranga’s transport network, with congestion stretching from Baypark to Tauriko.

“While this phase involves only a lane closure, similar pressure on the network is anticipated.

“Motorists travelling along SH29A are encouraged to check live traffic maps before departing, allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes such as Hewletts Rd, Turret Rd or SH29 Takitimu Drive.

“The works aim to secure the road long-term and protect a critical transport link into the southern parts of the city.”

More information is available on the Tauranga City Council website.