This week’s announcement of the preferred corridor for the Brynderwyn Hills section of State Highway 1 has been hailed as a game-changer for the Kaipara and Northland regions, but the benefits extend beyond just these areas.

The new route is set to improve access for those on the Hibiscus Coast as well, creating new opportunities for businesses and residents.

Transport Minister Chris Bishop revealed that the preferred corridor, which moves east of the current road, will create a safer, more resilient, and more efficient road link between Auckland and Northland.

This development marks a significant milestone in the planning for the route.

Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson described the corridor as "the most significant roading announcement for Kaipara and Northland" in our lifetimes, underscoring the long-term impact on the region’s infrastructure and growth potential.

While the focus has largely been on Kaipara and Northland, this upgrade will also directly benefit the Hibiscus Coast.

Improved access to and from Auckland means residents and businesses in Silverdale, Orewa, and surrounding areas can expect smoother and more efficient travel times, fostering economic opportunities.

Johanthan Larsen, Deputy Mayor of Kaipara and Chairman of the KDC Economic Development Committee, commented on the timing of this announcement.

"The motorway link to Auckland, coupled with Kaipara's relatively cheap and abundant land supply, provides us with a distinct competitive advantage," Larsen said.

"I expect this to benefit the Kaiwaka and Maungaturoto areas initially, with their proximity to the corridor and proposed interchanges, but the benefits will also reach further west into the whole Kaipara district."

As the road upgrade progresses, Hibiscus Coast businesses can look forward to more connections and a potentially larger customer base from the increasing traffic flow between Auckland and the North.

The Brynderwyn corridor is expected to have a similar effect to the completed Puhoi to Warkworth section of the motorway, which has seen increased demand and property value growth in the western parts of Kaipara.

With the new road set to link these regions more effectively, the Hibiscus Coast is poised to benefit from the economic ripple effect as well.

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