Motorists will notice highway safety improvements taking place around Rotorua this month.

Works are set to begin on State Highway 30 Owhata roundabout next week.

The NZTA say work is set to increase safety and help improve traffic flow at peak times.

'The NZ Transport Agency is making changes to the roundabout on Te Ngae Road which include the installation of a straight-through lane for city-bound traffic, as well as widening the existing shared path and cycleway.

'Approximately 100m either side of the roundabout will be widened to accommodate the extra lane.

'Contractors are scheduled to begin work on-site on Monday 4 March with the project expected to take about two months to complete.

'During this time, speed restrictions will be in place at throughout the construction period, and a stop/go traffic management will be required during some phases of the work. Motorists are being warned to expect some delays, particularly during peak times as work takes place.

'The work at Owhata roundabout is the first step in planned improvements along Te Ngae Road and is part of a wider, long term programme of work in Rotorua to help improve safety, access and journey times for residents and visitors.”

For more information visit www.nzta.govt.nz/owhataroundabout

Maraeroa and Oturoa intersections – State Highway 5

Safety improvements are planned to start next week on State Highway 5 in Rotorua.

NZTA's Bay of Plenty Transport Systems Manager Rob Campbell says we are installing two right-turning bays on the state highway at the intersections with Maraeroa Road and Oturoa Road.

'These turning bays will address ongoing safety concerns at the intersections by removing turning traffic from the through lane.

'We are widening State Highway 5 to make room for the turning bays which will allow turning vehicles to wait in the bay until it's safe to make a right turn, without holding up vehicles going straight through,” says Rob.

Work is due to begin Monday 4 March, with the project expected to be completed in May 2019.

In the past five years there have been three fatal or serious crashes within 100m of the intersections, and a further two minor and five non-injury crashes.

Speed restrictions and stop/go traffic management will be in place during the works however, with the majority of work being completed on the road shoulder, delays are expected to be minor.

The NZ Transport Agency would like to thank motorists for their patience during this time.

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey this summer. Keep up to date with:

Traffic updates:

Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWaikatoBoP

Twitter: twitter.com/NZTAwaibop

Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz

Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)