More than 500 lane kilometres set for renewal across Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
 
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) will deliver a significant programme of state highway maintenance and renewals across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty during the 2026/27 construction season. 
Bay of Plenty Asset and Operations Area Manager Sandra King says the programme is focused on keeping the region’s state highway network safe, resilient and reliable for the people and businesses who depend on it every day.

“Across Waikato and Bay of Plenty, we’re planning to deliver more than 500 lane kilometres of renewal work this season, including around 459 lane kilometres of resurfacing and 47 lane kilometres of pavement rehabilitation.

“This work is about maintaining the network at the right time, before roads deteriorate and require more disruptive and costly reconstruction.”  
 
The programme includes:  

• Bay of Plenty: approximately 131 lane kilometres of renewals.
• Central Waikato: approximately 208 lane kilometres of renewals.
• East Waikato: approximately 84 lane kilometres of renewals.
• West Waikato: approximately 84 lane kilometres of renewals.

Ms King says the programme balances different types of renewal activity across the region, from resurfacing roads to protect the existing surface, through to more intensive road rebuilds where sections of state highway need deeper repairs. 

“Resurfacing helps protect the road surface and extend its life, while a road rebuild is used where a section of road needs more substantial work to restore its strength and condition.

“Both are essential parts of keeping the network safe and reliable, particularly across a region that carries significant freight, commuter, tourism and local traffic.” 

While roadworks can cause short-term delays, the investment is essential to maintaining the region’s transport network. 

“We know roadworks can be frustrating, especially during the busy summer construction season, but this work is essential. 

“The result will be safer, smoother and more reliable journeys across Waikato and Bay of Plenty.” 

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Waikato & Bay of Plenty state highway works October 2026 [PDF, 196 KB]