Work to improve safety and access for all users at the busy intersection of Ulster Street and Maeroa Road starts on Tuesday 7 April 2026 and continues through to early June. Construction gets underway as the road renewals on Victoria Street were completed this week.

What’s being built

• New traffic signals at the Ulster Street/Maeroa Road intersection
• Signalised pedestrian crossings on the northern and western sides of the intersection
• Partial closure of Maeroa Road (east) at Ulster Street, left turn out remains
• Relocated bus stops on Ulster Street for better spacing and pedestrian access.

Between 2015 and 2024, 39 crashes were recorded at the intersection, including three serious and 13 minor injury crashes. Residents have also reported many crashes and near misses which have not been attended or recorded by NZ Police.

Hamilton City Council's General Manager of Infrastructure and Assets, Kevin Strongman, says the improvements respond directly to safety concerns while improving access through the intersection.

“This intersection is an important part of our transport network. These upgrades balance safety and traffic efficiency, while protecting the character of Maeroa Road east.

“Public feedback helped shaped the design, firstly through workshops and meetings with Maeroa Road east and Cardrona Road residents, then through wider community engagement in November 2025,” said Strongman.

To complete these upgrades safely and efficiently, Ulster Street will be reduced to one lane in each direction outside of peak traffic times. During peak travel times three lanes will be open, with two lanes operating in the busiest direction, to minimise traffic impacts.

To enable the installation of kerbs, islands, and ducting, both the Maeroa Road west connection and, later, the Maeroa Road east connection to Ulster Street will be closed for one to two weeks.

“We understand roadworks can be frustrating and inconvenient, and we thank people for their patience as we make the most of the remaining favourable construction season weather,” said Strongman.

Council had also investigated a roundabout; however, this would have required significantly more space than traffic signals, including the purchases of several properties and the demolition of some houses, making it a far more costly, time-consuming, and disruptive option. It would also present operational challenges, including difficulties providing safe access for people walking or biking.

Construction will run from 7 April to 5 June 2026, weather dependent. Standard work hours are Monday to Friday, 7am to 6pm, with some night work required for duct installation and resurfacing. Some Saturday work may be required to make up for weather delays.

This project receives a 51% funding subsidy from New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.

For more information

Learn more about the project and the community engagement undertaken at haveyoursay.hamilton.govt.nz/ulstermaeroaintersection.

Construction timeframes can change due to weather or unforeseen ground conditions. Stay up to date by visiting: hamilton.govt.nz/roadworks or downloading the Antenno app.

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