Road users are advised to plan ahead for their journeys with widespread chipsealing works next week on State Highway 16 (SH16) between Port Albert to Waimauku. 

Work will be carried out over 5 days from Monday 23 March, between 7am and 7pm, at multiple locations along SH16. Because of the number of sites, some drivers may pass through more than one worksite during a single journey or across multiple days.  

Stop/go traffic management and reduced temporary speed limits will be in place. These temporary speed limits are critical for safety and will remain in place to guide traffic over the new seal and to help embed it successfully until loose chip is swept and line marking completed. 

Drivers should expect short delays of around 5-10 minutes at each worksite while sealing is underway. 

Loose chips can reduce traction and increase safety risks – slowing down through every worksite, every time, is critical.

It’s important to slow down through newly chipsealed sections of road as loose stone on the surface can reduce vehicle grip and may also be flicked up and damage vehicles. If vehicles travel too fast over loose chip, there is an increased risk of skidding or loss of control, particularly on bends or uneven sections of road.  

That’s why temporary speed limits often remain in place even after it looks like the work has been completed. These limits are in place to support safety and to allow the new seal to bed in properly while loose chip is swept from the road surface. Travelling at the posted temporary speed limit helps vehicles maintain traction and ensures the seal cures as intended.  

With several consecutive worksites along SH16, it is important drivers remain alert and do not become complacent, particularly when travelling at night, as changes in road surface or loose chip may not be immediately obvious. 

Even if the road appears clear, loose chip may still be present.  

The works are being carried out at multiple locations at the same time as this is the most efficient way to manage crews and equipment, helping to complete the programme as quickly and safely as possible. 

Chipsealing helps maintain a smooth, skid-resistant surface, reducing potholes and slippery areas and helping to everyone traveling on our roads safe. 

All works are weather dependent and may be rescheduled if conditions are unsuitable. For the latest updates, check the NZTA Journey Planner.  

For weekly updates on upcoming road maintenance, sign up to our e-newsletters:  

• North Auckland (from SH16 north of Woodhill & SH1 north of Warkworth to Wellsford)(external link)
• Northland (from Topuni to Cape Reinga)(external link)    

NZTA thanks everyone for their patience and understanding while we carry out this essential maintenance.