Celebrating the project’s completion

Dignitaries, project partners and members of the community gathered this morning to celebrate the completion of the SH10 Waipapa Corridor Improvements project.

The Government was represented by Hon Kelvin Davis, MP for Te Tai Tokerau.

The new roundabout at the intersection of SH10 and Waipapa Road enables traffic to move more efficiently and safely, reducing congestion during peak times and supporting the continued growth of Waipapa and Kerikeri.

The project has opened up central Waipapa and made it much easier and safer to move around the town.

Waipapa is a key connector on the Twin Coast Discovery Route, which is important for local trips, inter-regional freight and in linking tourism attractions across Northland.

The project will improve the experience of visitors and people in freight vehicles travelling the Twin Coast Discovery Route, supporting Northland’s tourism industry and broader economic development.

It has also provided improved and safer access and crossings for people who want to walk and cycle around Waipapa.

Sculptures unveiled

As part of the event, a ceremonial karakia was held for the roundabout, where new sculptures were unveiled. These were designed and created by mana whenua Ngāti Rēhia and master carver Renata Tane (Ngāti Kawa).

The sculptures represent the tauihu (prow) and taurapa (stern) of waka that acknowledge four significant maunga within the rohe of Ngāti Rēhia – Orongo, Rangitane, Pokaka and Whakataha.

The concrete apron of the roundabout features a poutama design.

Revitalising the Twin Coast Discovery Route

Speakers at the event highlighted the difference a few years has made to the Twin Coast Discovery Route.

Once New Zealand is able to welcome international visitors again they will be greeted by a new roundabout at Kawakawa, flow through the roundabouts at Puketona and Waipapa and travel across the two-lane bridge at Taipa.

A new two-lane bridge at Kaeo will also begin construction shortly.

Local iwi and hapū have contributed to the artwork and cultural design of all these projects, linking them with the land, people and histories of the area.

Thank you

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency would like to thank the local community, road users and our partners for your patience and support as we completed the State Highway 10 Waipapa Corridor Improvements project.

More information

For more information on the SH10 Waipapa Corridor Improvements project, contact us at northlandproject@nzta.govt.nz

Visit our website www.nzta.govt.nz/waipapa-corridor-improvements