Twelve concrete beams are to be lifted into place to form the connection across the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road this month.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi described this step as a “major milestone” for the Pāpāmoa East Interchange.

The beam lift is scheduled to take place over four nights, between the hours of 8pm and 5am, from Tuesday, August 19, to Saturday, August 23.

“To ensure people’s safety, State Highway 2 will be closed between Domain Road Interchange and the SH2/SH33 Paengaroa Roundabout,” the roading agency said.

A detour via Te Puke Highway will be in place for all vehicles.

“Once complete, the bridge will feature 12 locally cast Te Puke beams, each spanning 33 metres in length and weighing approximately 70 tonnes.

Construction of the Pāpāmoa East Interchange began in mid-2022.

“This milestone marks another significant step toward the bridge’s scheduled opening in mid-2026, which will connect neighbourhoods in Pāpāmoa east to the TELTR and SH2.”