Government has approved a $1.5 million investigation to explore options to improve the stretch of State Highway 29 through Tauriko.
New Zealand Transport Agency Bay of Plenty director, Harry Wilson, says the area of road has a poor safety record and improvements are needed.

NZTA BOP director Harry Wilson.

"The area targeted for investigation also presents road users with a difficult driving environment," says Harry.
"It includes several tight corners, limited sightlines as well as the Tauriko township and school."
Earlier studies identified options for the route varying from realignments to a complete bypass of Tauriko.
The funding for the latest investigation will review the options, consider their social and environmental effects and select the most appropriate solution after public consultation.
It will also undertake geotechnical studies and develop a preliminary design for the preferred route.
The investigation is likely to begin within two months and is expected is take a year to complete. Options will be released for public comment towards the end of this year.