Hon Phil Twyford
Minister of Transport
MP for Te Atatū
PĀNUI PĀPĀHO
MEDIA STATEMENT
Gordonton Road 2020
Transport Minister Phil Twyford today with Māori King Tuheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII officially opened the country’s
newest road, the $384 million Huntly section of the Waikato Expressway.
The 15km four-lane highway with side and central safety barriers takes State Highway 1 east of Huntly town, across
lowlands and streams and over Taupiri Range, which is sacred to Waikato-Tainui.
Phil Twyford said the Waikato Expressway was a key driver of growth in the region.
“This section opening will improve safety and help grow the local economy by improving the link for businesses and
tourists between Auckland and Hamilton.
“Once completed, the Waikato Expressway is expected to reduce travel times by 35 minutes between the Bombay Hills and
south of Cambridge.
“With the Huntly section opening and final surfacing currently underway on the Longswamp section, there is just one
remaining piece in the 102km expressway project – the 22km Hamilton section - due for completion late next year.
“I’d like to acknowledge the role of local marae and Waikato-Tainui in the success of this project. This is a very
culturally significant area and I know that NZTA found the Tangata Whenua Working Group’s guidance invaluable.
“As part of our NZ Upgrade Programme, we’re also building a roundabout at the intersection of SH1/SH29, which will
improve safety at one New Zealand’s most dangerous intersections. This will future proof the extension of the Waikato
Expressway from Cambridge to Piarere.
“Our Government is also supporting development in Auckland’s southern growth corridor through the Hamilton to Auckland
commuter rail service, which will start mid-year,” Phil Twyford said.
Today’s event will be followed by a chance for the public to walk, run, cycle and bus along the new road tomorrow. This
includes the Expressway Classic half-marathon, starting near the Te Iringa Lagoon and providing an out-and-back course
over Taupiri Range to the Northern Interchange. There are shorter races for runners and walkers from the same start
point.