NZTA is advising motorists travelling between Ōrewa and Warkworth to prepare for upcoming overnight closures on State Highway 1 (SH1) during May.

The closures are necessary to complete finishing works on the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway project.

Both northbound and southbound lanes will be affected, stretching from Pukerito roundabout north of Warkworth to Grand Drive near Ōrewa.

The closures will take place over five nights, starting from 9pm on Sunday, May 12th, and continuing until 5am each following morning.

A contingency period of five additional nights, starting from May 19th, has also been scheduled in case of unforeseen circumstances.

NZTA emphasises that these works are weather-dependent and cannot proceed in high winds or storms with lightning.

The agency acknowledges the possibility of rescheduling due to poor weather.

Detour Information

Motorists can expect delays during the closure period.

NZTA has advised travellers to plan their journeys ahead of time and follow the designated detour routes.

Northbound traffic will be diverted via the Twin Coast Discovery Highway and the old State Highway 1 to reach Warkworth.

Southbound motorists will need to use the old State Highway 1 and the Twin Coast Discovery Highway to access the Ōrewa southbound on-ramp, as joining the motorway before the Johnstones Hill Tunnels will not be possible.

Delays Due to Previous Closure

NZTA explains that these motorway finishing works were previously delayed to minimise disruption caused by the extended closure of SH1 at Brynderwyn.

With the recent slip further prolonging the Brynderwyn closure, postponing the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth works is no longer feasible.

NZTA says it appreciates motorists' patience and understanding as they complete this critical infrastructure project.