Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
A busy season of road resurfacing and drainage improvements for one of Wellington’s most critical transport links is set to kick off.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South Mark Owen says drivers can expect to see roadworks underway on the Transmission Gully motorway from next week through until mid-February 2026.
“We have an extensive programme of works planned from Kenepuru right through to Mackays Crossing Interchange. Work crews will be at multiple sites in the upcoming months.
“Every year NZTA undertakes a large road renewal programme to maintain and improve state highways across the country. This year that includes a significant amount of resurfacing and drainage work on Transmission Gully.”
Mr Owen says the work will start on Tuesday 4 November and be ongoing through until mid-February next year, weather permitting.
“Drivers will need to plan ahead and factor in extra time for their journeys, as this work will require lane closures, road closures and speed restrictions to allow contractors to complete the work safely and as quickly as possible. When the motorway is closed there will be detours in place via State Highway 59 and State Highway 58. We will let the public know in advance when these works and closures are planned.”
Drainage works will begin next week, with northbound night closures on Tuesday 4 November and Wednesday 5 November between 9pm and 4.30am. All northbound traffic will need to detour via State Highway 59 between Linden through to SH58. Traffic management will be set up from 8pm, so drivers can expect delays from then.
Detour route for northbound closure between Linden and SH58.
NZTA contractors will be making drainage improvements and rebuilding approximately 6km of the 27km highway this summer. This work is needed to repair areas of the road that have been significantly impacted by water seeping into the pavement.
Additionally, there will be approximately 18km of routine chip-sealing maintenance work undertaken over the summer. Chip-sealing will help to waterproof the road surface ahead of the winter months in 2026.
Mr Owen says the resurfacing works being undertaken this summer will also help to prepare the motorway for a proposed speed limit increase to 110km/h. NZTA is currently analysing consultation feedback alongside technical information and plans to submit this to the Director of Land Transport soon.
Mr Owen says NZTA appreciates that work over summer can be disruptive and frustrating for drivers.
“We’re working hard to prepare the road for the future, and this work needs to be done over spring and summer as it requires warmer, drier weather.”
Mr Owen says with all the work planned, drivers should be ready for roadworks and the travel delays they will cause.
“Plan ahead, know where the roadworks are happening, how substantial they are, and how they will affect you. That way you can make informed choices, like timing your trip to avoid major works or allowing extra time for your journey.”
Mr Owen also urges drivers to respect road workers and the speed limits in place at road work sites.
“The speed limits are there for a reason – to keep workers and drivers safe.”
