Newmarket viaduct ahead of schedule

The first stage of the Newmarket viaduct replacement on Auckland's busiest motorway will be completed six months ahead of schedule, the NZ Transport Agency says.

Three southbound lanes are due to open on September 6, allowing contractors to complete a fourth southbound lane by early 2011.

Transport Minister Steven Joyce said early completion of the $215 million project would be a huge relief for the 160,000 motorists who use the viaduct every day.

- NZPA