Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Board has given the green light for the Ōtaki to north of Levin (Ō2NL) highway to proceed to construction, marking a significant milestone towards a safer, more resilient and efficient transport connection for the fast-growing Horowhenua and Greater Wellington region.
At its meeting earlier this afternoon, the NZTA Board confirmed additional funding to ensure that the project will progress, including some features from the originally consented concept design.
NZTA Chief Executive Brett Gliddon says the new Ō2NL highway is a key project for the region, and a priority in the Government Policy Statement on land transport, as part of the Roads of National Significance (RoNS) programme.
Mr Gliddon says throughout the planning and design process, NZTA has considered value for money options and listened to community feedback.
As a result of today’s Board decision, the following elements of the project will be reinstated.
- The new highway connection with Tararua Road in Levin, which will be a grade-separated interchange
- The southern connection, near Taylors Road, will include a southbound onramp, allowing vehicles travelling south on the current SH1 to join the Peka Peka to Ōtaki expressway north of Ōtaki, and
- The local road at Manakau Heights will be connected across the new highway via a bridge.
The Ō2NL project will deliver a more efficient, resilient and safer highway which is firmly focused on enabling future growth and development in one of New Zealand’s fastest growing districts.
“Now that funding has been confirmed along with the reinstated scope, we look forward to beginning construction later this year. We’re also looking forward to continuing our work with Horowhenua District Council as it progresses work on the Tara-Ika growth area,” says Mr Gliddon.
“Working in partnership with Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, local hapū of Ngāti Raukawa te au ki te Tonga and Horowhenua District Council, NZTA recognises Ō2NL is crucial for the development of the area and will become an integral part of the state highway network, adding to the more resilient, safer and more efficient drive north from Wellington.
“We understand the importance of the Ō2NL project to the community, and we appreciate the feedback provided during the recent community engagement.”
More information, including details on the level of additional funding approved, will be confirmed following the finalisation of contracts for construction of the project later this year.
