Construction of the Tiniroto bypass was given the green light today with a karakia and sod turning with residents, mana whenua, contractors and Council staff.

The bypass features two new bridges across the Hangaroa river connected by more than two kilometres of new road through rugged farmland around the unstable Hangaroa bluffs.

Mayor Rehette Stoltz said the $45m bypass will be one of the largest single Council-led roading projects the region has ever seen.

“Once you see the terrain out here you really understand how much work is required to create the new road through this farmland,” she said.

Earthworks will involve up to 40,000 cubic metres to prepare for the 18,000 metres of new road pavement and 20 new culverts.

The project is a key component of Council’s $241.5m Government funded recovery programme.

“We’re so grateful to Government for their constant support and funding this project, which will build resilience for our region for generations to come.”

Council major projects manager Jamie Gallacher said the project is expected to take up to two years and minimal disruption to road users is expected.

“The first stage of works is preparing for construction with relocating services, buildings and trees,” he said.

“By March next year we expect to be at full construction levels with major earthworks on the new road."

See Council's website for more information on the bypass and the recovery programme.

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