State Highway 1–29 Intersection Improvements for the NZ Transport Agency

The SH1 and SH29 intersection at Piarere is located approximately 44km south of Hamilton and 63km north of Rotorua on New Zealand’s North Island. This high-volume traffic intersection, which is on one of New Zealand’s most critical corridors, provides a north-south and east-west interchange connecting Auckland to Tauranga via Hamilton.

As one of New Zealand’s most dangerous intersections, it was identified as one of the projects to be delivered and fast-tracked under the New Zealand Upgrade Programme. Construction included a new roundabout, involving significant earthworks, pavement and surfacing, cycle and pedestrian concrete underpasses, retaining walls, cycle lanes, and associated civils.

The completed roundabout has three approaches (SH1 Tīrau, SH1 Hamilton, and SH29) and a stub for the future expressway between Cambridge and Piarere. Project delivery required working safely while managing the challenges associated with working adjacent to live lanes with high traffic volumes, a busy confined site and a delicate environment around Lake Karapiro.

After 17 months of construction, we’re proud to have successfully delivered safer, smoother journeys along this vital route.