Turuturu Road to be upgraded with road widening and shared path

South Taranaki District Council will begin safety improvement works on Turuturu Road at the end of May, with construction expected to continue until late July, delivered by contractor OPS.

During this time, the road will be restricted to one lane, with traffic management in place throughout the project. Turuturu Road will remain fully operational, however motorists should expect some delays and are encouraged to plan accordingly.

Key features include widening the road pavement, improving the surface, building a shared pathway, upgrading drainage, and installing new signage, to support safer walking, cycling, and travel in this rapidly evolving and well-connected part of Hāwera.

The shared pathway will run on the southern side of Turuturu Road, but will cross near the Turuturu Mokai Reserve entrance, where the shoulder narrows and requires the pathway to switch sides.

Roading manager, Vincent Lim, says the work will make everyday travel safer. “Cyclists, cars, and heavy vehicles, including logging trucks, share a tight corridor along this route. Widening the pavement and adding a shared pathway provides safer separation and a more predictable journey for everyone.”

Turuturu Road is an essential route, for both freight and whanau commuting into town, carrying nearly 1,000 vehicles per day (11% heavy traffic). With ongoing development in the area, these upgrades will improve safety, support future growth, and strengthen the resilience of an important transport link.

Once complete, the upgraded corridor will support safer journeys, encourage active transport, and improve connectivity for the wider South Taranaki community.