Signs alongside roadworks tell pedestrians where to go Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Summer holidaymakers should expect disruptions during road trips as the transport agency begins the country's largest ever road renewal season.
Waka Kotahi is resealing or rebuilding more than 10 percent of the state highway network - 2400 lane kilometres - from later this month to April next year, and national manager maintenance and operations Neil Walker said the particularly heavy rain this winter meant there was a big job ahead.
"In terms of scale, this is the most significant renewal programme we have ever undertaken," Walker said.
"A significant portion of this work will be in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty area, where more than 700 lane kilometres will be renewed."
Significant resealing work will also take place in Northland, Gisborne, Hawke's Bay, Taranaki, North Canterbury, and other regions throughout the summer months.
"Because our contractors will be delivering work during the warmer, drier months of the year, it'll mean some level of disruption across the state highway network throughout summer.
"However, plans will be in place to complete this work as efficiently and effectively as possible, minimising the overall impact on people using the roads."
Waka Kotahi said people should check its online Journey Planner before travelling.
