SH2 safety improvements between Tauranga and Waihi

Road works at Aongatete Whatakao stream bridge. Photo/George Novak

A major safety improvement programme will roll out on SH2 between Tauranga and Waihi.

The NZ Transport Agency said they are focused on reducing delays to motorists travelling on State Highway 2 (SH2) between Tauranga and Waihi while contractors work on a $5million safety improvement programme.

The works will see guard rails which prevent run off road crashes and wide centre lines, which reduce the risk of head on crashes, installed.

Contractors are also removing hazards such as trees to make it easier for people to see oncoming cars at intersections.

The Transport Agency's Bay of Plenty journey manager, Nigel D'Ath said stop/go traffic management, speed restrictions and lane closures will be in place on various sites along the route during the works.

"Traffic will be closely monitored to keep any delays to a minimum however people should plan ahead and allow extra time when travelling between Tauranga and Waihi while these works are carried out," he said.

The safety improvements are part of the Transport Agency's SH2 Safe System Northern Corridor project, which is focused on exploring ways to improve safety on the highway between Bethlehem and Waihi.

The project aims to reduce the number of crashes on the stretch of highway by creating a more forgiving road environment.

People can find out more about the SH2 Safe Systems Northern Corridor Project here.

Traffic management will be in place at other road work sites around the region this week as work on the Tauranga Eastern Link (TEL) and ongoing maintenance continues.

Sites where delays of up to 10 minutes are possible are detailed below to help people plan ahead when travelling around the Bay of Plenty.

SH2 between Katikati and Waihi, Bridgman Lane

Speed restriction of 50km/h (day) and 70km/h (night) is in place on a stretch of the road near Bridgman Lane as contractors repair a road slip.

Motorists are advised to allow extra time when travelling on this route.

SH29 between Tauranga and the Kaimai summit, Soldiers Road rehabilitation

A 30km/h speed restriction and some stop/go traffic management will be in place on Saturday May 30 to allow contractors to work on a stretch of SH29.

The work will be carried out from 6am until 12 noon and motorists should allow extra time when travelling through the site.

The Tauranga bound passing lane is closed to allow contractors to carry out the work safely. The work is weather dependent and may be postponed if necessary.

The Transport Agency apologises for any inconvenience and thanks motorists for their patience.

For personalised information about driving conditions on their frequently used routes, motorists can check out and sign up to On The Move at www.onthemove.govt.nz.

For real time information on highway conditions and incidents visit www.nzta.govt.nz call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or follow @nztawaibop on twitter.