Traffic lights at northern gateway to be switched on

Darren Petry from Taupō District Council

The traffic lights at the intersection of Norman Smith Street and Wairakei Drive are set to go live about 2pm on Monday following the redevelopment of the intersection and northern gateway into Taupō.

The introduction of traffic lights marks the final milestone in the five phase project that has seen safety improvements introduced to the area over the last three months.

While residents and road users may be familiar with the general layout of the intersection, Project Manager Ian Gray said caution needed to be taken when using it as the last of the required line marking work would be done on Monday ahead of the traffic lights going live. Normal road rules applied, and digital screens on the approaches would alert motorists the traffic lights had been turned on.

“We encourage everyone to take their time using the lights and be aware of others while we all get used to the new system,” he said. “The traffic lights going live mark the end of the work and should help motorists navigate the intersection more easily and quickly. Although we do not expect the improvements to relieve all congestion issues, particularly during busy holiday and event periods, we know they will make a positive difference to travel times, particularly for Nukuhau and Acacia Bay residents travelling into Taupō town centre.”

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