Auckland motorway work winds up

The revamped southbound lanes of Auckland's southern motorway have now reopened.

NZTA had expected the complex work needed to open the new viaduct to take up to 36 hours.

However, the critical element of relocating the 800-tonne 'Big Blue' construction gantry was completed without a hitch overnight, allowing final paving work to be finished this morning.

Southbound traffic is now moving freely across the first half of the new Newmarket Viaduct.

However, Aucklanders are being told not to drive unless essential, as travel delays are still likely while traffic management measures and detour signs are removed across the city.

Motorists heading south on State Highway 1 are reminded to be aware of the changed motorway layout and visual distractions, and to drive with extra caution as they head across the new southbound Newmarket Viaduct.

Mark Walker, NZTA's traffic operations manager for Auckland and Northland, said they made excellent progress by working hard through the night.

"We're pleased that we'll be able to open the motorway earlier than we anticipated.

"We understand that people will be keen to get back in their cars, but we do ask for just a few hours more patience, as traffic on local roads may well remain congested for a while as traffic flows return to normal," he said.

Travel information will continue to be updated over the remainder of the closure at the project's website, www.nzta.govt.nz/newmarketconnection and at www.facebook.com/switchmyroute.

- NZPA