Maungatapu's new underpass begins

The construction of the new Maungatapu underpass  that will be built on State Highway 29A and will connect to Welcome Bay Road begins early next month.
Members of the Ngāti He hapū of Maungatapu  were present at the first turning of the sod for the new underpass on Tuesday. 
The underpass will separate state highway and local traffic, reducing congestion at peak times and making travel safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

The dignitaries and guests were reminded  of the cost of the project in terms of the land from its Maori owners and set aside for the roading project.

“It was taken fifty years ago,” says Ngai Te Ahi Kaumatua Huikakahu Kawe, “so there's been many tears shed over this land.

The representatives of the three hapu today are the children and grandchildren of the people from which the land was taken

The Project is expected to be completed by mid 2017.
The link below gives you a interactive view of what the new underpass will look like.

http://www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/hairini-link/