Hauraki budgets over $9 million for summer roadworks

Summer spells roadworks in Hauraki, with council this season budgeting over $9 million to fix up the district.

Sixty-eight sites across the district will see some form of works, including road resealing and rehabilitation, drainage renewals and bridge repairs.

Warmer months make for better resealing conditions as frosts can damage new seal surfaces, according to Hauraki District Council.

"In our district, temperature extremes, large traffic flows in summer when the seal is soft, and high numbers of heavy vehicles mean that our roads take a real pounding," the council said.

"We know roadworks can be a bit of a pain, but this regular maintenance is essential to catch problems early, avoid costly emergency repairs down the track, and keep our infrastructure ready to serve our community for years to come."

Alongside resealing roads, road rehabilitation works such as replacing pavement bases or restoring line markings will take place, a necessity according to council to prevent ongoing deterioration.

"Council also undertakes drainage renewal and stormwater pipe replacement as part of the summer works programme. This involves replacing old or damaged stormwater pipes and upgrading drainage systems to reduce flooding, blockages, and improve stormwater flow during heavy rainfall."

"Our team regularly assess the state of our roads and prioritise which of them need repair. Priority is given to roads with surface cracking, potholes and other issues which could pose a risk to motorists."

The announcement follows NZTA closing State Highway 2's Karangahake Gorge from October 12 - 16 9am-4pm to remove unstable rock.

NZTA Waikato Area Manager, Asset and Operations Andy Oakley said a full closure was the only safe way to carry out the work.

"Rope-access technicians will be working directly above the highway and rocks may fall on to the road below. The closure hours have been chosen to reduce disruption on school traffic, commuters and freight while giving crews enough daylight to work safely," Oakley said.

"We recognise the closures will be disruptive and appreciate road users' patience. Confirming the new dates early gives people, businesses and freight operators time to plan their journeys."

Bridge repairs carried out by the district council span from structural damage wear to preventative maintenance, with work carried out based on "risk, condition and available budget".

A new $10 million two-lane bridge on State Highway 25 north of Whiritoa will also arrive to the district courtesy of NZTA, replacing the old single lane Ramarama Stream Bridge.

Residents are urged to check Antenno for any updates.