The Warkworth to Te Hana highway project has taken a major step forward, with NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) opening registrations of interest last Friday.This marks the first stage in the procurement process for Section 1 of the Northland Corridor, a Road of National Significance designed to boost safety, resilience, and connectivity between Auckland and Northland.The 26km, four-lane highway will extend the new Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway north to Te Hana.It forms part of a 100km strategic route connecting Warkworth and Whangārei.The protected route travels west of Warkworth, east of both Wellsford and Te Hana, before reconnecting with State Highway 1 near Waimanu Road.NZTA says the project will unlock economic growth, improve freight efficiency, and make travel safer and faster for all road users.“This is a major milestone for Northland’s transport network,” says Derek Robertson, NZTA Northland Corridor Programme Director.“It will improve travel, safety, and freight links to Auckland and the wider Upper North Island.”Project Highlights850m twin-bore tunnel through Dome ValleyThree interchanges at Warkworth, Wellsford, and Te HanaRemoval of nearly 1,000 heavy vehicles per day from SH1 through Wellsford and Te HanaReduced congestion through Wellsford’s main streetFaster, safer travel between Warkworth, Wellsford, and Te HanaImproved road geometry and gradients for safer journeysStronger freight links supporting economic growth and productivityA resilient alternative to the current SH1 routeImage supplied by NZTA.For Coasties, this means safer, quicker trips north—whether heading away for a weekend or transporting goods.The project promises less heavy traffic on SH1 and improved connections for Warkworth and Wellsford town centres through well-located interchanges.The project will be delivered through a Public Private Partnership (PPP).The current Registration of Interest process is the first step, followed by a formal Expression of Interest process before the end of March 2025.A Request for Proposal (RFP) will then be issued in mid-2025 for up to three shortlisted bidders.A preferred bidder is expected to be announced in early 2026, with the contract finalised by mid-2026. Detailed design and construction are set to start later that year.NZTA is also advancing plans for the other sections of the Northland Corridor—Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway, and Port Marsden Highway to Whangārei—aiming to deliver faster, safer, and more resilient transport connections across the region.“This project is about unlocking Northland’s potential,” says Robertson.“It will bring long-term benefits for communities, businesses, and New Zealand’s wider transport network.”For Hibiscus Coast locals, it’s one step closer to smoother, safer travel and improved freight routes north.See the video below.Got a local story?We’d love to hear it! Send your tips to [email protected]