Frequently asked questions

Latest update 1 October 2025.

Resurfacing works FAQs

When will SH1 Brynderwyn Hills be closed?

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi will fully close SH1 Brynderwyn Hills from 13–16 November and 20–23 November. In between the closures, the road will reopen for 3 days (17 November–19 November) and will potentially close again on 20 November if required to complete the remainder of the works that will take place under the full closure.

• Closed – 13 November (12:01am) to 16 November (11:59pm).
• Open – 17 November (12:01am) to 19 November (11:59pm) – 3 days.
• Closed – 20 November (12:01am) to 23 November (11:59pm) – Open 24 November onwards.

Why were those dates chosen?

While there’s no perfect time for major road works, the selected dates and approach aim to balance community impact, construction quality, and efficient delivery.

The super weekend closure timing has been decided based on traffic volume modelling, weather patterns and following engagement with key stakeholders. Our planning incorporates feedback from the initial recovery works in 2024. 

Traffic volumes in October, November and early December are very similar, with the summer peak beginning in late December. This window takes advantage of the more favourable spring weather including dry, warm conditions needed for a high-quality finish while avoiding the peak summer tourism season. Spring paving offers the best chance for a successful finish.

To speed up the resurfacing works, we’ll carry out limited low impact overnight enabling works before the closure. This significantly reduces the required closure time.

What contingency planning do you have if there are storms in November?

We have allowed extra time in our programme for rain days. These weekends have been selected to balance the need to complete the works in dry weather with avoiding disruption to the peak tourism season. 

If both weekends are affected by poor weather, any backup dates will avoid peak times. We will keep regional stakeholders involved in any future conversations. 

What is the extent of the closure?

The closure will extend from SH1/SH12 intersection on the south side of the Brynderwyn Hills through to the bottom of the hill on the north side (adjacent to Waipu Gorge Road). Clear signage will direct vehicles along the detour routes.  

Before travelling, check out the State Highway travel information on our Journey Planner website 

Journey Planner(external link)

Why is a full closure necessary?

We understand that a full closure is disruptive, but it’s the most efficient and effective way to get this work done. The full road width is needed for paving machinery and roadworkers to operate safely. A full closure allows for a seamless finish without centreline joints.

Partial or night-time closures aren’t feasible due to safety, space, efficiency and quality concerns. Stop/go or partial closures would extend the programme to 12–14 weeks – disrupting the region for much longer.

To make efficient use of the full closures, the Northland maintenance team (NOC) will carry out planned renewal work during this period. This will help reduce the need to return over summer, minimising further disruption to the region.

Why not have one lane of traffic open?

Partial or night-time closures were carefully considered but aren’t feasible as retaining an open lane would be unsafe for workers and road users for the following reasons: 

• The paver needs the full road width to operate safely – there is not enough road width for equipment to safely work with the lanes open
• Doing anything other than a full closure will mean joints in the centre of lanes
• Safety, such as for the turning of OD loads around corners on the hill.

What does the work involve?

We’re completing the final stage of the SH1 Brynderwyn Hills recovery project. This involves applying a full-width asphalt surface, reinstating lane markings and passing lanes, and returning the route to 80km/h. 

Will access be maintained for people who live and work on the Brynderwyn Hills? 

There are a small number of residents who need direct access to properties in the closure area. We will work closely with the residents to understand their needs and help to minimise disruptions as much as possible.  

Will there be any work required after the closure?

This is the final planned phase of the recovery works. The final line marking, and 80km/h road signs will be in place before the closure finishes. There isn’t expected to be any work after the closure, apart from routine maintenance.

What are the long terms plans to improve the resilience and reliability of SH1 to Northland?

The recovery works completed in 2024, and resurfacing works completed in this closure will ensure a safe and reliable connection for Northland for the short to medium term, while the long-term solution is being developed. An alternative for SH1 Brynderwyn Hills is part of the Northland Corridor Te Hana to Port Marsden Highway Road of National Significance (RoNS).​ Following NZTA Board endorsement of the Northland Corridor Investment Case in August/September 2025, we will share more information on the next steps for the long-term solution for the SH1 Brynderwyn Hills alternative. ​

Find out more and sign up for updates on the Northland Corridor project.

Northland Corridor project page

How will the detour routes affect my journey time*?

*Detour route times and distance Auckland to Whangarei (average car journey) actual times may vary.

Alternative scenic routes into Northland   

View larger map [PDF, 180 KB]

Will there be any restrictions on the Cove Road like previous closures? 

Cove Road is a local road under the authority of Kaipara District Council (KDC) and Whangarei District Council (WDC). Truck-with-trailer units will be restricted on Cove Road between Waipu Cove (at McLeans Road) and Mangawhai (at Mangawhai Heads Road). Restrictions will also apply to Gorge Road and Waipu Gorge Road.   

What monitoring or enforcement will there be of the detour routes?  

Clear signage will be in place and a map on the website showing detour routes. We are working with freight associations, WDC and KDC and the NZ Police to educate drivers so they know the routes they are legally allowed to take. Enforcement will be managed by NZ Police, Kaipara and Whangarei District Councils. 

Can I drive my car/ride my bike/tow my boat or caravan on all the detour routes?  

It is suggested that you use Cove Road for light vehicles (up to 3.5 tonnes). We ask all road users to share this route with care.  

What happens if there is a crash on any of the detour routes?  

If a detour route is closed due to an incident or event, heavy vehicles will not be detoured via the Cove Road route. Before travelling, check out the State Highway travel information on our Journey Planner website. 

Journey Planner highway conditions(external link)

How can I contact the project team? 

Emailing northlandproject@nzta.govt.nz  

Where can I go to get updates on the progress of the work? 

• Visit our website for up-to-date information
• Follow our NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi – Northland Facebook page(external link)