Major works: Lane closure on SH2/15th Ave

Work is about to being on a new bridge connection as part of the Takitmu North Link project.

A section of State Highway 2/15th Ave is expected to be closed for the next two years.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said one westbound lane on SH2/15th Ave will be closed from Sunday through to mid-2026 for work to build a new bridge connection.

“The entrance to Edgecumbe Rd from SH2 will also be closed while major works take place,” said a spokesperson.

“A full overnight closure of the westbound lanes on SH2/15th Ave and Cameron Rd will be in place between 7pm and 5am on Sunday while concrete barriers are being installed for ongoing traffic management of this area.”

NZTA said works, part of the Takitimu North Link project, involve building a 120m large retaining wall and earthworks, prior to construction of a new 128m bridge connecting to SH29/Takitimu Drive Toll Rd.

The works will affect people who use SH2/15th Ave.

“People passing through this area will see the existing retaining wall near Edgecumbe Rd removed, vegetation cleared, service relocations and earthworks continue with around 8000 cubic metres of material to be removed.

“The construction of the retaining wall will start mid-October. Once this has been completed the construction of the new 15th Ave bridge connection will start. This area will be in construction for approximately 2 years.

“Local people and those passing through this area should be prepared for disruption over the construction season, there will be delays as we complete this work.”

An artist's impression of the new highway and bridge connection.

Detours for Sunday, September 15.

- Northbound – Cameron Road to Elizabeth St and onto SH2

- Southbound – Cameron Rd to SH29A roundabout

The new connection from SH2/15th Ave to Takitimu Drive Toll Rd/SH29 will be built as part of the Takitimu North Link project – providing a better-connected journey for people travelling from Tauranga towards Te Puna, Tauriko and Lower Kaimai.

- SunLive