On Friday, June 7, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, and Councillor Greg Sayers visited the Downer North Rural Road Maintenance Team.

The team showcased their recent work to support Auckland’s recovery following the 2023 Anniversary Weekend floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, as well as their innovative approaches to maintaining the unsealed road network.

The focus of the visit was on the new techniques and strategies employed by our team to improve the maintenance of unsealed roads.

One such technique involves the use of a new stabilisation product that has been trialled on several unsealed roads in North Rural Auckland. It has proven effective in increasing the strength and binding of road materials, reducing the need for virgin materials and the frequency of grading.

The successful application of these techniques has benefited over 70 kilometres of the unsealed network in North Rural Auckland.

Mayor Brown expressed his admiration for the team’s efforts, particularly highlighting the importance of proper grading and drainage.

“It’s wonderful to hear the team are doing things well and thinking about this stuff, and not just putting more metal on the roads,” Mayor Brown stated.

He noted the effectiveness of the “crown” on the road, a crucial feature that ensures proper drainage as surface water drains away preventing pooling and minimises the risk of potholes.

During a site visit to Inland Road near Helensville, the Mayor observed the positive results of the stabilisation trials. He was impressed with the road’s improved quality, effective drainage, and the minimal presence of loose gravel.

Councillor Sayers acknowledged the positive feedback from local residents, who have noticed significant improvements in road conditions.

He mentioned that the number of complaints from ratepayers concerning unsealed roads has decreased substantially.

“This new approach to stabilising the unsealed network means the team are doing more with the funding available and delivering better value for ratepayers,” Councillor Sayers remarked.

The team’s innovative maintenance strategy not only enhances road quality but also offers economic and environmental benefits.

Their dedication to improving the unsealed network has garnered the appreciation of both Mayor Brown and Councillor Sayers, marking a positive step forward for the community.

For more information on the Downer North Rural Road Maintenance Team’s collaboration with AT and our efforts, you can click here.