KEY POINTS:
Why did they build the "pukeko bridge" over the toll road? The sign on the bridge says Hillcrest Rd but the road ends up in a paddock nowhere near the toll road. Who or what will be able to use it?
M. Rushen, Red Beach.
Hillcrest Rd was built, or at least extended, to provide access to property on the western side of the motorway. Without the "pukeko bridge" the owners would have lost any means of reaching the other side of their property. So they, and people they nominate, will be able to use the road.
Can one build up a kitty for the toll road by putting $10 into the payment machine, say with five $2 coins? If so, is there a time limit on how long it can sit there without being used?
Bruce Woodcock, Auckland.
Yes, you can, but it's not really the best way of doing things, as the cash payment points get so busy. But if you choose to do things this way, single and multiple trips are valid for 180 days. The best way of buying single or multiple trips, though, is to call the freephone (0800 40 20 20) or go to www.tollroad.govt.nz There is no extra charge for paying by these options, and you don't need to set up an account.
Heading north there is a sign, "Cash payment 2.3km ahead" but nowhere does it state the location of the toll machine. In the interests of visitors, could you check this out please?
Shirley Dyke, Auckland.
So nice to have a theme. There is actually a second sign, that says "Cash option at service centre", to let people know that they can pay at the BP Service Centre in Dairy Flat. But it's not wholly successful, so the New Zealand Transport Agency is looking at ways of beefing the signage up.
If you're heading north this long weekend, start planning now. The NZTA just knows that those cash payment kiosks are going to be overrun with motorists trying to do the $2 thing, and really, the wait at the kiosks cancels out the time that could be saved. So, because it's not called the electronic toll road for nothing, buy your return trip before you leave. There are of course free alternative routes. If you are travelling to or from Wellsford or points north, use SH16. On your way home, use SH17 via Waiwera, Orewa and Silverdale
