Bay of Plenty progress with Pāpāmoa East and Tauriko West
NRC is encouraged to see major transport infrastructure developments in the Bay of Plenty are moving ahead, with progress on the Pāpāmoa East Interchange and a green light for the Tauriko West Road of National Significance (RoNS). These initiatives mark key milestones for improving road freight efficiency and regional connectivity, particularly on SH29 and SH29A, which serve as vital links between Auckland, Waikato, and the Bay of Plenty.
SH2 Pāpāmoa East Interchange ramps up
Construction of the Pāpāmoa East Interchange is set to benefit the fast-growing local population, expected to reach 40,000 by 2043. The interchange, spanning the Tauranga Eastern Link Toll Road, will alleviate congestion and enable development in areas such as Golden Sands, Wairākei, and The Sands town centre.
In response to Tauranga City Council’s request, the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has agreed in principle to an early opening of the eastbound off-ramp in the second half of 2025, ahead of full project completion in mid-2026.
A potential new toll point is also under consideration west of the interchange, with public consultation on this proposal planned for mid-2025. The project is led by Tauranga City Council and HEB Construction, with 51% NZTA funding. Once complete, NZTA will take over operation and maintenance of the interchange.
🔗 More information: letstalk.tauranga.govt.nz/pei
Tauriko West Road of National Significance gets green light
The NZTA Board has endorsed the investment case for the Tauriko West RoNS, a significant step in unlocking Western Bay of Plenty’s economic and housing potential. SH29 and SH29A improvements are key to ensuring efficient freight movement, enhancing safety, and supporting regional growth.
Key project components:
- A new 4-lane SH29 corridor from Redwood Interchange to Takitimu North Link (TNL), designed for 110km/h travel.
- Widening SH29A from Takitimu Drive Toll Road to Barkes Corner.
- Seven intersection upgrades, including three new interchanges and two overbridges.
- Revocation of current SH29 for local use.
- Consideration of tolling, subject to Ministerial approval.
The NZTA Board has allocated $97.2 million for route protection and set a project budget of $2.8–$3.3 billion.
Project phases:
- Ōmanawa Bridge replacement (starting late 2025).
- Route protection for SH29 and SH29A.
- New SH29 construction and Takitimu North Link connection.
- Widening SH29A and new interchange at Barkes Corner.
Project Scope and Outcomes
- Travel time reliability to improve by 40%, with savings of 13 minutes on SH29 and six minutes on SH29A.
- Enabling up to 30,000 new homes in the Western Corridor by 2063.
- Aims for 50% reduction in deaths and serious injuries (DSIs).
- New cycling/walking crossings and intersection upgrades.
- Support for Tauriko Business Estate expansion.
Tolling remains a consideration under the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport (GPS 24), with a projected Benefit Cost Ratio of 1.7 if implemented.
These initiatives form a crucial part of the Government’s strategy to drive economic growth, expand housing, and improve transport safety in the upper North Island.
