Source: Radio New Zealand
Facebook / Te Awa Kairangi – Delivering RiverLink
On the first afternoon of road works being in effect on Queens Drive and High Street in Lower Hutt traffic is heavy, as businesses say they are worried how the nine month-long closure is going to hit their bottom line.
The intersection between Queens Drive and High Street is closed from March through to December as part of the SH2 Melling Transport Improvements, part of the Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi project, formally known as RiverLink.
The RiverLink works have already drawn the ire of local residents who have reported roadworks to date have caused gridlocks and long delays.
There have been reports that the traffic sometimes backs up the off-ramps and causes delays on the motorway.
Some say their commute times have tripled, hitting set after set of road works.
But others say the problems are worth bearing for the improvements the work will bring.
The traffic was already heavy around the intersection on Monday afternoon. Google Maps
Have you been affected? Get in touch with: krystal.gibbens@rnz.co.nz
Project Director Matt Hunt said the work underway in Lower Hutt for the SH2 Melling Transport Improvements was significant and would have an ongoing effect on residents, businesses, and traffic.
“NZTA/Waka Kotahi is committed to minimising the impact of construction as much as possible. But, given the size and scope of the works, an impact on the community and traffic is unavoidable and some disruption is inevitable. This is normal when road layouts change, and we expect things to take time to settle.”
Concern for business bottom line
Owner of Lingams Barber and Beauty Ravineel Lingam was said in the short term he was worried it would hurt his business as he was concerned it would put people off coming to his shop.
But long term he expected to see the benefits of the project.
Helen, who works nears the road closure, said she could already see a gridlock forming by 1pm on Monday afternoon, and expected it would get worse during peak hour traffic.
In a post on social media Councillor Brady Dyer told commuters to use a mapping app while driving around the city.
“I’ve been using it religiously since Riverlink kicked off earlier this year and it’s been a lifesaver. It knows what’s closed, reroutes you automatically, and I’ve discovered parts of the city I didn’t even know existed.”
Facebook / Te Awa Kairangi – Delivering RiverLink
Some on social media expressed concerns that the continual road works meant there was no reprieve from congested and gridlocked streets across the city and lengthy commutes.
Others said they were resigned to the roadworks as essential infrastructure.
Agencies acknowledge delays frustrating
Hunt said keeping State Highway 2 flowing as efficiently as possible was a priority.
“We are closely monitoring real-time traffic flows and have adjusted traffic light phasing on the highway to keep vehicles moving.
“We do appreciate that our work near Melling is affecting travel times, as is the work being done by the Greater Wellington Regional Council, and the Hutt City Council, with the works they are managing.
“We acknowledge the disruption is frustrating and inconvenient for the public. But the work underway will result in new and better infrastructure which will bring significant benefits via a much improved and safer transport link between SH2 and Lower Hutt.”
Greater Wellington director of delivery Jack Mace said it and its Te Awa Kairangi partners were working together to make the programme of work as smooth as possible.
“This includes coordinated traffic management, sequencing works to avoid unnecessary overlap, ensuring clear detours and signage, and adjusting public transport routes to keep people moving. The partnership regularly reviews traffic conditions and community feedback to identify opportunities for improvement.”
Mace said they were aware the works were affecting travel in the area.
“We have heard from residents who are feeling the impact of the works, particularly around Melling and the CBD where traffic management and road closures are enabling the development of major Te Awa Kairangi future‑focused infrastructure, including the new bridge, upgrading the Melling interchange, relocating the train station and strengthening stopbanks,” he said.
“At the same time, we are also hearing from people who understand the scale of the programme and the value it delivers – improved flood protection, stronger connections to SH2, better public transport links, and a safer, more resilient Hutt Valley for decades to come. This long‑term vision is the driver behind the programme as a whole.”
NZTA advises alternative routes and modes of transport
NZTA said drivers could expect travel delays and should allow more time for their journeys.
People travelling at peak times were advised to use a mapping app to find the most efficient route for their travel.
“We would also encourage drivers to consider alternative routes – such as exiting at Petone or the Dowse Interchange when travelling into the Lower Hutt city centre or suburbs near the centre. Where possible and appropriate, people can also consider using active modes (such as walking and cycling), for journeys around the project area.”
People travelling into Wellington were also recommended to take the train to avoid delays on the roads.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
