The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has released a proposal for constructing a new road between Warkworth and Wellsford, which is expected to make traveling between Northland and Auckland safer, faster and easier.

The new proposed road has an Indicative Route for the Warkworth to Wellsford section of the Ara Tuhono Puhoi to Wellsford Road of National Significance.

New Zealand Transport Agency Northland director Ernst Zollner said: “Building an off-line motorway, completely separate from the existing State Highway 1 will improve safety, reduce congestion and support Northland’s economic growth.

"Removing sharp bends, providing better passing opportunities and a dual carriageway to separate north and southbound traffic will improve safety."

“Removing sharp bends, providing better passing opportunities and a dual carriageway to separate north and southbound traffic will improve safety and is predicted to reduce the fatal and serious injury crash rate by 80% through this area.”

The Dome Valley, State Highway 1 is reported to be vulnerable to flooding, slips and ongoing repairs because of the natural environment in the region.

The location of the proposed motorway to the west of the Dome Forest would offer an alternative and reliable route between Northland and Auckland.

The Indicative Route is linked to the local road network helping to connect local communities. It connects the Puhoi to Warkworth section of motorway near Kaipara Flats Road.

The road will traverse through the western side of the Dome Valley until it reaches the Hoteo River and will cross eastwards over the existing SH1 to an interchange proposed at Wayby Valley Road in Wellsford.

The highway agency has also proposed another motorway interchange near Mangawhai Road, with the motorway then meeting the existing State Highway 1 north of Vipond Road.

Zollner further added: “Once the motorway is built travel will also be safer for local road users because 90% of regional traffic, especially heavy traffic, can avoid townships making their main streets safer for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.”

The Indicative Route proposal will be shared with public for their feedback which will help further refine the route.

NZTA will decide on the commencement of the construction after completion of national and regional land transport plans.