New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is set to open the 120m-long Maungatapu underpass project to traffic.

The underpass will be opened on 22 June, featuring a two-lane link underneath the Maungatapu roundabout.

When opened, NZTA intends to implement a temporary speed restriction at the underpass, and new traffic lights will be operational at the Welcome Bay Road and Welcome Bay Link Road intersection.

NZTA project manager John McCarthy said: “We are nearing project completion. However, the area remains a construction site.

“The Maungatapu underpass project has been designed to separate state highway and local traffic in order to improve journeys around the Maungatapu and Hairini roundabouts.”

“As such, I urge people to take care and stay focused when travelling through the area for their safety, and the safety of their passengers and all other road users and construction workers.”

Additionally, a temporary stop sign will be installed at Hairini Street.

The transport authority also noted that the shared cycleway, which is part of the project, will remain closed until the Hairini Street connection is complete.

The Maungatapu underpass project has been designed to separate state highway and local traffic in order to improve journeys around the Maungatapu and Hairini roundabouts while increasing safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

In a separate development, NZTA is planning to upgrade a stretch of North Canterbury’s State Highway 7 with an investment of NZD3.5m ($2.3m).

The upgrade will see the installation of safety barriers to help prevent fatalities or serious injuries caused by crashes.

It will also include rumble strips to alert drivers if they stray outside of their lane.