The off-ramp from SH29/Takitimu Drive Toll Road on to SH2/15th Ave will be closed for four months.

The closure, starting this Sunday until late April, is to allow for construction to progress for road widening in the area.

“The crew’s main focus during this four-month closure is to construct an extra lane and install signage gantry foundations,” NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said.

“Locals and those passing through the area should be prepared for disruption during the closure as there will be minor delays as we complete this work.”

A detour will be in place during this time. Northbound traffic will travel along SH2 to Elizabeth St to Cameron Rd, or SH2 to Elizabeth St roundabout and back on SH2 to 11th Ave.

The new connection from SH2/15th Ave to Takitimu Dr 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.

A map showing the detour route during the closure. Image / NZTA

The work is part of a new connection from 15th Ave to Takitimu Dr.

NZTA said residents and those passing through this area should be prepared for disruption over the construction season, and advised there would be delays and changes to the road layout work was completed.

“As with most major construction projects, there will be a certain amount of vibration and noise as the Takitimu North Link project progresses.

“We will do our best to ensure we can minimise disruption as much as possible. If you are concerned about vibration or noise related to the project, please contact us.”