With maintenance season upon us, you’ll probably come across more work sites on your journey and a bit more disruption on our roads. These works are to keep the state highway network safe and in good shape, but they also mean more crews working just metres away from live traffic.  

That’s why speed limits through work sites are so important. Our roading crews are out there fixing potholes, resealing surfaces and upgrading infrastructure so we can all travel more safely. When you ease off the accelerator, you’re giving them the space and security they need to get their job done and get home safely to their whānau.    

Andy Oakley, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Waikato System Manager says speed is a factor every driver can control. 

“When drivers slow down, it makes a huge difference to the safety of our crews and the quality of work we can deliver.” 

Lower speeds are also safer for you too. Work sites often bring lane changes, heavy machinery and uneven road surfaces. Sticking to the posted limit gives you more time to react and keeps everyone – including your passengers safer.  

So next time you come across a site and see our traffic management and temporary speed limits, remember they’re there for a good reason - to protect the people working hard on the roads and to keep you moving safely.  

“By slowing down through work sites, you’re reducing the risk of something going wrong – for our crews and for yourself,” says Mr Oakley. 

To find out more about the upcoming maintenance season, sign up to receive your regional newsletter here(external link).  

Welcome to ‘Simon Says’ - a segment where NZTA’s Bay of Plenty Journey Manager, Simon, shares helpful tips and suggestions for commuters.  

Chipseal, aftercare, and you! 

One of the most common types of roadworks you’ll come across this maintenance season is chipsealing, and while it might look simple, it’s actually a pretty sensitive process. 

Chipsealing relies heavily on the right environment and careful aftercare. One of the biggest factors? How we drive over it. 

When a fresh chipseal is laid, traffic is directed over it at 30km/h, and that’s not just a suggestion. That speed helps the stone chips compact and interlock properly, which is key to creating a strong, long-lasting surface. 

Here’s what happens when we don’t stick to the speed limit: 

• Too fast? You’ll flick loose chips off the road, leaving gaps behind. 

• Too slow? The surface can overheat and stick to your tyres, pulling up chips and damaging the seal.

Once the seal has settled, the excess chip gets swept away and road markings are added, but until then, it’s a delicate balance. 

So next time you’re traveling through a chipseal site, do your part: stick to 30km/h. It’s a small action that makes a big difference to the quality and lifespan of our roads. 

Waikato & Bay of Plenty State Highway Works 19 September 2025 [PDF, 1.9 MB]