A major transport upgrade for the Western Bay of Plenty has received Fast-track approval, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says.
NZTA lodged its application in August 2025 to build about 7.7 kilometres of new highway in the Bay of Plenty.
“Approval has taken just five months following the commencement of the expert panel,” says Mr Bishop.
“The Government is committed to building a long-term pipeline of transport infrastructure investments to redress New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit and build jobs and growth for Kiwis.
“The Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 Road of National Significance will be a four lane, median-divided highway between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, improving safety and reliability on one of the region’s busiest routes.
“Takitimu North Link Stage 1 is now four years into construction, with major structures largely complete. All bridge construction is scheduled to finish in 2026, and the project is expected to be fully completed in 2028.
“The new road will provide a safer and more reliable trip between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, supporting regional growth and productivity. It will improve travel times for all transport modes and enhanced reliability and safety for commuters.
“NZTA estimates the project could deliver around $610 million in economic output for the Bay of Plenty region and provide more than 4,800 jobs over the development period.
“It’s part of the Government’s work to ensure New Zealand has a credible pipeline of high value infrastructure projects extending into the future, and that they’re ready to go as funding becomes available.
“This is the 14th project approved through the Fast-track process and the first roading project.”