Ōtaki to north of Levin expressway announcement welcomed by regional mayors and chairs.

Through Accelerate25, and under the Accessing Central New Zealand (ACNZ) framework, a dedicated group of regional mayors and chairs have been galvanised in its messaging to central government that this project is a critical piece of Lower North Island infrastructure.

Horizons Regional Council chair Bruce Gordon welcomed the announcement from NZTA and the support from the transport minister Phil Tywford earlier today.

“There has been real value in the regional mayors and chairs working together to advance the case for designation. We look forward to continuing working with the minister and the transport agency on the work programme,” says Mr Gordon.

“O2NL improvements, alongside the new Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatū Gorge route, and the Palmerston North integrated Freight and logistics transport hub will ensure logistics, freight and people can move safely and efficiently throughout our region and beyond.

“The first stage of the project is to designate the road, which will give certainty to the Horowhenua residents and the district council to plan for their future in a sustainable manner.
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“We are grateful to the minster and his team, and our partners at the New Zealand Transport Agency that they have heard our calls for a safe, connected transport system that will provide for our communities needs for years to come.”