Auckland’s state highways will undergo critical maintenance and improvement works during the upcoming holiday season, with projects set to minimise future disruptions to motorists.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency has announced that the works will begin on State Highway 1 (SH1) Central Motorway Junction and the Auckland Harbour Bridge from 26 December through to 6 January, while further improvements are scheduled for State Highway 16 (SH16) Port area early next year.

Jacqui Hori-Hoult, Regional Manager for Maintenance and Operations, said the holiday period offers an optimal window for these projects due to reduced traffic in central Auckland.

"Traffic volumes are at their lowest at this time of year, giving our teams the best opportunity to carry out this work," she stated.

Key projects on SH1 include:

• Central Motorway (Spaghetti) Junction: Replacement of a bridge joint on southbound lanes between Symonds Street and Grafton Road overbridges, running from 9 pm, 26 December, to 5 am, 6 January. There will be daytime lane reductions and overnight full closures, with detours available for ramp and link closures.

• Auckland Harbour Bridge: Resurfacing and maintenance on southbound and northbound clip-on lanes, requiring 24/7 lane restrictions while keeping traffic flowing in both directions.

Ms Hori-Hoult urged motorists to plan ahead and use the Western Ring Route (SH18, SH16, and SH20) where possible to bypass congestion.

“We will be working hard to keep disruption to a minimum. However, you may experience delays, and we ask that you plan your journey.”

The projects on SH16 Port area, commencing January through to April 2025, will involve weekend lane closures and weeknight restrictions to consolidate improvements and reduce the need for additional closures throughout the year.

Ms Hori-Hoult also made a plea for patience and safe driving around work zones.

“Be kind to our people working on the road and bridge, spending time away from their whānau over the holidays. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits, and follow traffic management directions at our work sites.”

Motorists are encouraged to check for live updates and detour information on the NZTA website to navigate the closures.

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