Essential roadworks under way north of Taupō

Only essential road works are being undertaken at present. Photo / File

Essential works to complete road repair and resurfacing on State Highway 1 near Wairakei, north of Taupō, will re-start from today and are expected to take up to 10 days to complete.

The works are near Palmer Mill Rd, north of the State Highways 1 and 5 intersection, and were partially completed prior to the Covid-19 Level 4 lockdown.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency acting Waikato transport systems manager Rob Campbell says these essential works will allow contractors to complete work on what is currently an active work site to ensure the road remains safe for all road users.

"Safely maintaining New Zealand's state highway system is considered vital at this time in order to ensure that critical functions to limit the spread of the Covid-19 virus can continue."

Temporary speed restrictions and stop/go traffic management will be in place and motorists should drive with care.

Later this week, temporary repair work is also expected to commence near the Lichfield dairy factory north of Tokoroa.

A new surface will be applied to prolong the life of this section of the road until more permanent repairs are undertaken after winter. The work should take no more than a few days.

Campbell asks people to be patient and respectful to road workers, and look out for their safety and wellbeing.