Auckland’s Waterview Tunnel will open to traffic in early July, marking the biggest milestone in the city’s transport network in more than half a century
The $1.4 billion Waterview Connection is New Zealand’s biggest and most complex roading project, and includes twin 2.4km-long three-lane tunnels.
“Once open, it will transform the way people and freight move around Auckland, and will represent the biggest change in travel patterns since the opening of the Auckland Harbour Bridge in 1959,” Transport Minister Simon Bridges says.
A ceremonial opening on Sunday, 18 June, will be followed by public open days to allow people the chance to experience the tunnel up close before opening to traffic.
“The Waterview Connection is New Zealand’s largest-ever roading project and is a significant part of the strong investment the government is putting into Auckland,” Bridges claims.
“This investment in the strategic motorway system will help support Auckland’s increasing population and economic growth.
“It largely completes the Western Ring Route, a new 48km route linking the west of Auckland, Manukau, the city and the North Shore.
“Together, the Waterview Tunnel and wider Western Ring Route will give more options to people and freight moving around and through Auckland, creating a more efficient, resilient and reliable network,” Bridges adds.
A series of public open-day events will be held in the lead up to the operational opening of the tunnel to traffic.
