Work is set to begin to replace the narrow concrete hill section of Cames Road in Mangawhai.

This work was one of the four seal extension projects agreed in the 2024-2027 Long Term Plan and will bring long-awaited improvements for residents and road users in the area.

The existing section of road is a single lane, partially concreted steep hill, which residents have requested for a number of years be upgraded to improve safety and resilience.

The project will upgrade a 390-meter long stretch of the road with a six-meter-wide reinforced concrete surface, correcting what was originally a paper road and which had been developed over time without the benefit of comprehensive planning.

The new concrete surface is designed to last 100 years and will provide a durable, dust-free surface for a road which now sees significantly higher traffic volumes than it has in previous years.

Kaipara District Council Mayor Jonathan Larsen said that asking contractors to provide their best proposal for a fixed budget of $450,000 allowed the council to choose the option that gave residents the best solution.

“The under-engineered section of Cames Road is a legacy issue that’s been around since before I first joined Council. Last term was the first time it was possible to gain agreement to allocate budget for a permanent upgrade. It will be great to finally see this section of road fixed. The upgrade will provide a safer, wider and more durable road surface that meets the needs of the community and this fast growing area.”

Mayor Larsen extended his thanks to Cames Road residents and surrounding locals for their patience.

Local contractor Shane Cullen Contracting will work alongside council's roading team to deliver the work.

Construction is scheduled to begin on Monday 4 May and expected to take around a month to complete. During construction a road closure will be in place, with resident-only access, to enable roading crews to deliver the project in a compressed timeline ahead of the wet winter months.

© Scoop Media