More than 500 lane kilometres of state highway renewals will be carried out across Waikato and the Bay of Plenty during NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi’s 2026/27 construction season.

The programme includes around 459 lane kilometres of resurfacing and 47 of pavement rehabilitation, aimed at maintaining road safety, reliability and resilience across the two regions.

NZTA Bay of Plenty asset and operations area manager Sandra King said the focus was on maintaining roads before they deteriorated and needed more extensive and costly reconstruction.

Bay of Plenty will get about 131 lane kilometres of renewals, while Central Waikato 208, East Waikato 84 and West Waikato 84 lane kilometres.

Bay of Plenty summer works map. Image / NZTA

King said the programme would involve a mix of resurfacing and deeper rehabilitation works.

“Resurfacing helps protect the road surface and extend the life of the pavement underneath, while rehabilitation is used where a section of road needs more substantial work to restore its strength and condition.

“Both are essential parts of keeping the network safe and reliable, particularly across a region that carries significant freight, commuter, tourism and local traffic.”

NZTA is also maintaining and strengthening 15 bridges across the Waikato.

Projects include Piako River Bridge on State Highway 27, Poutu River Bridge and Mangatawai Stream Bridge on SH1, Mangaorongo Stream Bridge on SH3, Symes Bridge on SH39 and Waiotaka Bridge No 2 on SH1.

Work includes scour protection, crack repairs, bridge joint replacements, retaining wall improvements and other structural repairs.

Central Waikato summer works map. Image / NZTA

King said some projects would require temporary traffic management measures, including lane closures, reduced speed limits, stop/go controls and short-duration road closures.

“We’ll be working closely with contractors, councils, communities and key road user groups to co-ordinate works and keep people informed.”

While motorists could expect delays during the season, King said the investment was necessary to ensure the long-term performance of the transport network.

“We know roadworks can be frustrating, especially during the busy summer construction season, but this work is essential.

“The result will be safer, smoother and more reliable journeys across Waikato and Bay of Plenty.”

Bay of Plenty summer works map. Image / NZTA