State Highway 1 over the Brynderwyn Hills will fully close for two four-day “super weekends” next month as crews complete the final stage of the recovery project ahead of the busy summer season.

The closures, from 13–16 November and again from 20–23 November, will allow contractors to lay a full-width asphalt surface, reinstate lane markings and passing lanes, and restore the 80km/h speed limit.

The road will reopen between the two weekends from 17–19 November.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi’s Northland System Manager, Steve Matene, says the approach was chosen to finish the job quickly while keeping disruption short.

“If we’d used stop/go traffic management, the works would’ve taken up to 14 weeks. With full closures, we can finish in 6–8 days,” he says.

Crews will work around the clock, with 75% of the Auckland and Northland paving teams on site.

The upgrade marks the final step in restoring the region’s key connection after months of repair.

For Hibiscus Coast travellers heading north, it means a smoother, safer route once the works are complete.

Northland Inc’s Paul Linton says the improvements will pay off for the whole region.

“Strong, reliable roading links with Auckland and the rest of the country are essential for growth. Every visitor, every truck, and every trip contributes to Northland’s economic pulse.”

During both closures, three detours will keep Northland open: Cove Road for light vehicles, Paparoa Oakleigh Road for trucks up to 50MAX, and SH12/SH14 for larger freight.

Night works on 5–6 November will prepare the surface, with minimal delays expected.

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