Delays expected as major works on SH2 start this weekend

Major work to rebuild and strengthen a section of SH2 approaching Bethlehem between Waihi Rd and Moffat Rd starts this weekend. Photo / Supplied

Major work to rebuild and strengthen a section of State Highway 2 between Waihi Rd and Moffat Rd starts this weekend.

In a written statement, New Zealand Transport Agency's Bay of Plenty system manager Rob Campbell said most of this section of road was about 30 years old and coming to the end of its life.

"We have just over 28,000 vehicles passing through this section of SH2 a day. It is important that the road is reconstructed and strengthened so it is up to the appropriate standard for motorists to use," Campbell said.

From March 10 contractors will be working day and night, six days a week, to rebuild this stretch of SH2, but the work was dependent on the weather, he said.

"We are working on about 800m of this road, and we will be reducing the northbound highway to one lane for the duration of the works, which we expect to take around six weeks."

Campbell said people should expect significant delays, particularly afternoons and on Friday evenings for motorists travelling from Tauranga towards Bethlehem.

"We ask those travelling to be patient and expect delays on their journey and we would like to thank motorists for their co-operation during this time," he said.