Construction of a new bridge over the Hauraki Stream on State Highway 36, just north of Lake Rotorua near the Hamurana intersection, will begin later this month.
SH36 is one of only two state highways linking Rotorua with Tauranga and the western Bay of Plenty.
The project will see the replacement of an ageing culvert – more than 80 years old – with a wider, stronger single‑span bridge designed to better withstand future weather events and provide safer, more reliable travel.
“The current culvert on SH36 north of Hamurana, while safe to use, is at the end of its useful life and needs replacing,” Transport Minister Chris Bishop said in a statement on Thursday.
“State Highway 36 is a vital connection between Tauranga and Rotorua, and I’m pleased NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is prioritising delivery of a fit‑for‑purpose bridge replacement.”
NZTA said the existing culvert has served the region well, but ongoing maintenance and emergency works over recent years have shown that replacing it with a modern structure is a more cost-effective, long-term solution.
“SH36 has undergone significant maintenance following several severe weather events,” an NZTA spokesperson said.
“While the current structure remains safe to use, replacing it with a modern and more resilient bridge will improve the long-term reliability of this important route and help keep our regional communities connected.”
A map showing where the bridge will be built on SH36. Image / NZTA
Construction will be carried out by Isaac Construction at a total cost of $10-$12 million and will use prefabricated bridge components to speed up delivery and reduce disruption.
To minimise traffic impacts, the new bridge will be built in half widths, allowing single-lane traffic to continue through the site for most of the construction period.
However, NZTA said some disruption is unavoidable because of the narrow road corridor and steep gully below the site.
“Keeping road closures to a minimum has been a key part of the design process,” the NZTA spokesperson said.
“Any full closures that are required will be communicated well in advance so road users can plan ahead.”
The bridge replacement is part of a wider programme of works approved under the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP), which includes repair or upgrade work on nine priority bridges and culverts across the state highway network.
Since July 2024, a further five priority locations have been added.
“Fixing the basics of our roading network is a priority for this Government,” Bishop said.
“Many bridges around the country require speed or weight restrictions due to their age and condition, and it’s essential these priority structures are replaced when funding becomes available.”
Work on the site is expected to be completed in early 2027.
NZTA said it remains focused on delivering the project safely and efficiently while keeping residents, businesses and road users informed throughout construction.
“We appreciate the patience of the local community and travellers using SH36 and will continue to provide regular updates as the project progresses,” the spokesperson said.