The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is to construct a two-bridge bypass of Awakino Tunnel to improve the safety of commuters travelling on State Highway 3, and also revealed the next steps for Mt Messenger bypass project.  

For this project, the Government of New Zealand will invest NZ$135m ($94.5m), which would provide better connectivity between Taranaki Region and the upper North Island. 

The new project is part of the government’s accelerated regional roading programme, which has been designed and developed to speed-up delivery of important regional transport projects.

New Zealand Transport Minister Simon Bridges said: “State Highway 3 is a key priority for the Government. That’s why we’re investing NZ$135m ($94.5m) to provide a better and more resilient connection between the Taranaki Region and the upper North Island.

“A two-bridge bypass of Awakino Tunnel has been selected that was also the favoured option by the public. Design and consenting work will now commence ahead of construction.

"The community strongly favoured improved safety, resilience and journey experience as key priorities along the route."

“The community strongly favoured improved safety, resilience and journey experience as key priorities along the route.”

Bridges further explained that the government would be carrying out a wide range of safety resilience improvements on this highway which includes road widening, intersection improvements, passing opportunities, road realignments and slope stability.

NZTA will also be carrying out consultations with the local community leaders and develop an option as they have raised their concerns for the Mt Messenger bypass.

The government is expected to announce the preferred option for Mt Messenger by August this year.

Image: A map of proposed two-bridge bypass of Awakino Tunnel in New Zealand. Photo: courtesy of New Zealand Government.