Commuters are already experiencing problems with Auckland’s Waterview Tunnel.
The country’s longest tunnel officially opened to traffic on Sunday, and travellers experienced delays almost immediately.
The NZ Transport Agency acknowledged the $1.4 billion tunnel was getting busy, tweeting that it was the “tourist destination of the day”.
NZTA Auckland Highway Manager Brett Gliddon advised motorists to avoid rushing through the tunnel in the first few days of its opening, to help ease traffic congestion.
“When it first opens motorists should expect the tunnel to be very busy because we know many people are keen to experience driving it for the first time.
“The Waterview Connection will be a key part of the Auckland transport system for a long time now and there’ll be plenty of opportunity for everyone to use it.”
The tunnel took five years to build and completes a key link in the 48km Western Ring Route that includes a giant motorway interchange at Great North Rd to connect the Southwestern and Northwestern motorways.
The alternative route through Auckland is designed to pressure on State Highway 1 and the Harbour Bridge.
NZTA has encouraged the public to plan their journeys and expect it will take some weeks for traffic flows to adjust.
