Take extra care driving on SH1 near Rakaia this week

Motorists travelling State Highway 1 near Rakaia this week are being asked to take extra care and allow for delays with road sealing works beginning tomorrow (Thursday) and the Ride the Rakaia event this Saturday.

The NZ Transport Agency’s Journey Manager Lee Wright says just south of Rakaia, where works have been underway since mid-January reconstructing 2.5kms of SH1, the contractors will be re-sealing the highway during the next three days and nights, depending on the weather.

“Motorists have been experiencing five to 10 minute delays travelling through the area during the last six weeks but are advised to allow more time for their journey with sealing works about to begin.

“We are also asking for everyone to strictly observe all speed restrictions which are in place at the site not only for the safety of the road crew but also to help protect the new seal.

“It is important motorists do not speed through the new seal as it may cause damage to the works and to other vehicles travelling through the area.”

Ms Wright says the Transport Agency’s summer programme of annual maintenance and safety improvements has only about five weeks to run and she thanked motorists for their patience and goodwill to date.

This Saturday (28 February) more than 1000 cyclists will be riding across the Rakaia Bridge as part of the annual Ride the Rakaia race and motorists are advised the bridge will be closed for about 15 minutes from about 8am.

“We ask for everyone’s patience as these cyclists ride across the bridge at the start of the race. The cyclists will then head inland to complete a 102km circuit.”

For the latest information about what is happening on the state highways phone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or visit the website: www.highwayinfo.govt.nz

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