SH16 Petition UPDATE: Kumeu to Taupaki

Warwick from Muriwai

2,800 is the number of you who have joined the petition to encourage the New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA) to reprioritise their projects to include the widening of SH16 between Taupaki Road and Kumeu in a timely manner.

To visualise that number, imagine each of the 2,800 as a driver of a car in a stationary single line of traffic commencing from Access Rd T/Signals on SH16, at Kumeu.

Travelling towards Auckland, this queue passes Taupaki to the M/Way, passes Westgate, Lincoln, Te Atatu and Patiki Roads with the front car now positioned between Waterview and St Luke Ramps.

Many will be aware NZTA have a proposed project due for completion on SH16 early 2021. This project includes widening to 4 lanes from the N/W M/Way to Taupaki Rd; a two-lane roundabout at the Intersection with Coatesville-Riverhead Rd; many other road safety additions including median barriers. Estimated cost $53,000,000.

The above project, while very helpful, mostly resolves safety issues. This is an alternative project to the ideal solution of a BYPASS around Kumeu and Huapai returning to SH16 near Waimauku. Unfortunately, this will not be commenced until the 2030’s (NZTA’s admission). In short – not usable before mid-late 2030’s at the earliest (if then).

On completion of this proposed project, a 2.5km section of SH16 will be left as just two lanes between Taupaki and Kumeu and it is this section of the corridor we are asking for inclusion into the upcoming project. We are saying “if this is to be the approved option for SH16”, do it properly and upgrade the complete corridor in a timely manner.


NZTA have given no indication of how they are to resolve the congestion that will occur as a result of the 2.5kms being left as two lanes.

With the expectation of 1000’s of new dwellings into the area over the next few years, congestion must only worsen. Having a four-lane corridor from Kumeu (while the second-best option) appears the only alternative option for the next 13 years that is achievable.

If completed, a four laned corridor would significantly improve traffic flows, give more opportunities for enhanced Public Transport, improve security of travel, and make for a safer drive. For those who are not aware of the petition, you can find it on:

CHANGE.ORG and the link to it is set out below:

www.change.org...

Your assistance in helping have NZTA reconsider their projects would be appreciated. Please share where you can. Cheers.