A major new highway linking key growth areas in the Western Bay of Plenty has been granted fast-track approval, marking a significant step forward for one of the region’s largest transport upgrades.
Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop confirmed the Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 project has been approved following an accelerated consenting process under the Fast-track Approvals Act.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi lodged its application in August 2025 to construct around 7.7 kilometres of new four-lane highway between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, replacing part of the existing State Highway 2 corridor.
“Approval has taken just five months following the commencement of the expert panel,” Bishop said.
“The Government is committed to building a long-term pipeline of transport infrastructure investments to redress New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit and build jobs and growth for Kiwis.”
The new road, designated a Road of National Significance, will be a four-lane, median-divided highway designed to improve safety and reliability on one of the Bay of Plenty’s busiest and fastest-growing routes.
“The Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 Road of National Significance will be a four lane, median-divided highway between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, improving safety and reliability on one of the region’s busiest routes,” Bishop said.
He said the project would support rapid population growth in the Western Bay and ease pressure on the current state highway, which has long been criticised for congestion and safety issues.
“The new road will provide a safer and more reliable trip between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, supporting regional growth and productivity. It will improve travel times for all transport modes and enhanced reliability and safety for commuters.”
According to NZTA estimates, the project could generate around $610 million in economic output for the region and support more than 4,800 jobs during its development.
“It’s part of the Government’s work to ensure New Zealand has a credible pipeline of high value infrastructure projects extending into the future, and that they’re ready to go as funding becomes available,” Bishop said.
“This is the 14th project approved through the Fast-track process and the first roading project.”
Background: Fast-track process and project scope
The Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 is being delivered under the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024, legislation designed to speed up consenting for major infrastructure and development projects.
The NZTA application was deemed complete in August 2025, with no competing applications or existing resource consents affecting the proposal. An expert panel was appointed in October 2025 to assess the project, ultimately delivering approval within five months.
The project includes more than just the construction of a new highway. Plans also cover extensive earthworks, stream realignment, and environmental mitigation measures.
This includes building wetlands, swales and stormwater ponds, as well as restoring more than 33 hectares of wetlands near Ōmokoroa Road and Te Puna Stream. Measures to address noise, ecological, cultural and landscape impacts are also part of the development.
Stage 2 builds on progress already underway for Takitimu North Link Stage 1, which is now four years into construction. Major bridge structures are largely complete, with all bridge work expected to finish in 2026 and the full project scheduled for completion in 2028.
Together, the two stages are expected to transform a key transport corridor in the Bay of Plenty, improving connections between Tauranga and surrounding communities while supporting continued regional growth.
