Respect the Road – it takes all of us

Every day, road workers across Aotearoa New Zealand are out in all conditions, rebuilding and maintaining the roads we all rely on. Whether it's a quick repair or a full rehabilitation, these crews work hard to keep our journeys safe, smooth, and reliable.

But they can’t do it alone. We need every driver to play their part:

• Slow down near work sites
• Follow temporary speed limits within each work site
• Stay alert and avoid distractions
• Show respect to the people doing the mahi.

SH5 Mamaku: Don’t rush the red – road workers ahead

At the SH5 rehabilitation site near Mamaku, workers have reported a disturbing increase in reckless driving and verbal abuse. In just one day, 23 drivers ran the red light intentionally, endangering themselves and the crew on site.

“We’re asking all drivers to make safe choices – for themselves and our crews,” says Sandra King, System Manager for Bay of Plenty. “We know most drivers do the right thing – but even one risky choice can have serious consequences.”

The site is set up with clear signs and electronic boards to give plenty of warning to drivers.

“We understand that road works can be disruptive to travel -– we are doing this work so you can have safer and smoother journeys and we aim to give plenty of notice before work starts, and around the work site. We ask that you plan ahead and factor in time for some delays.”

Rebuilding roads takes time, skill, and care – and every safe choice from drivers helps us get the job done faster and safer.  Let’s work together to keep everyone safe – respect the cones, respect the crew, respect the road.

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Waikato & Bay of Plenty State Highway Works 26 September 2025 [PDF, 2.2 MB]