SH2 passing lanes to close for Auckland to Coromandel holiday traffic

SH2 and SH25 are typical hotspots for traffic congestion, especially during the holiday period. Photo / Alex Cairns

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is rolling out a fresh wave of traffic management measures this summer to keep holiday traffic moving smoothly across the Bay of Plenty and Waikato.

With peak travel season fast approaching, the agency is urging travellers to plan smart, stay alert and make use of its real‑time summer journey planner, as preparation remains the key to safer, stress‑free trips.

As in previous years, the passing lanes on State Highway 2, between Pōkeno and the State Highway 25 Mangatarata roundabout, will be closed during peak times to ensure smoother traffic flows.

The eastbound passing lanes will be closed on Saturday, December 27, and Sunday, December 28, between 4am and 10pm.

Westbound lanes will be closed on Saturday, January 3, and Sunday, January 4, between 4am and 10pm.

“Queues might be a little longer when the passing lanes are closed, but there will be minimal impact on your journey time,” NZTA Waikato journey manager Andrew Brosnan said.

“A slightly slower speed doesn’t make for a longer journey overall, as traffic moves more steadily.”

As SH2 is the main connection between Auckland and the holiday hotspots of the Coromandel Peninsula, Waihī Beach and Tauranga, Brosnan said the moves are about making the state highways safer for everybody.

“The Christmas shutdown for roadworks will be in place from midday Friday, December 19, and continue through to midnight Sunday, January 4.

“The break ensures fewer delays for travellers and gives our hardworking crews a chance to wind down and prepare for a busy start to 2026.

“Even though major work is put on hold, there may be sites under traffic management to keep road users safe.”

In the Waikato, the busiest spots are expected to be on SH25 around Tairua township, on SH1 between Tīrau and Karāpiro and on SH2 between Pōkeno and Matamata.

In the Bay of Plenty, the busiest spots are likely to be on SH2 between Paeroa and Waihī, on SH2 between Tauranga and Katikati and on SH29 over the Kaimai Range.

For peak travel times, when congestion is likely, check out NZTA’s summer holiday journey planners.