Months of work in just two weeks as Eastern Busway moves closer Months of work in just two weeks as Eastern Busway moves closer
Date: 17 December 2025
About 2,500 tonnes of asphalt will be laid in just two weeks while the Ti Rākau Drive/Pakūranga Highway intersection is closed from 27 December 2025 to 12 January 2026.
The closure allows Auckland Transport’s Eastern Busway alliance crews to complete months of work in just two weeks.
Auckland Transport Programme Director and Eastern Busway Owner Interface Manager Andy Huang says although the closure is inconvenient for some road users, working around the clock while traffic is lighter allows the project team to fast-track necessary work.
“This approach minimises overall disruption to road users and saves costs. It helps us continue to successfully progress busway construction as quickly as possible.”
Once reopened, the upgraded intersection will return to two lanes in both directions.
“This intersection upgrade is crucial for the Eastern Busway,” says Mr Huang.
“Crews are reconfiguring the road layout, constructing 330m of kerb, laying 2,500 tonnes of asphalt and installing new traffic lights and streetlights. This short, sharp disruption will deliver long-lasting benefits for East Auckland.
"We're asking everyone who may use Ti Rākau Drive to plan their journeys carefully and allow extra time.”
Ti Rākau Drive will be closed between Aylesbury Street and William Roberts Road in both directions as will the Pakūranga Highway on and off ramps. Rā Hihi (Reeves Road) flyover will remain open for Pakūranga Highway access.
Care has been taken to minimise impacts for the community. Access has been maintained for local shops on Ti Rākau Drive via a temporary road at the William Roberts Road, Mattson Road and Tī Rākau Drive intersection. The Pakūranga Plaza bus stop has been temporarily relocated, footpaths remain open, and the team is working directly with residents living close to works.
In addition, AT and its Eastern Busway project partners are continuing investigations on an upgrade of the Pakūranga Road and Rā Hihi singalised intersection to allow three lanes towards Howick and help traffic flow better in the weekday afternoon peak commute. AT will continue to monitor this intersection and update the wider community on plans for construction upgrades early next year.
Opening in 2027, The Eastern Busway is a key part of Auckland’s rapid transit network connecting East Auckland to the wider region.
Bus services continue with detours. Passengers can check the AT journey planner at at.govt.nz/bus-train-ferry/journey-planner for live updates.