Roading Projects

There are a number of Roading projects underway across the District. This is where you can find out what those projects are and get regular updates on progress. These projects are in addition to the general road upgrades, repairs and maintenance work that continues all year round.

Rangiora Eastern Link road

A new eastern arterial in Rangiora has been in planning since 2001 and is getting closer to fruition.

The planned new arterial road, will follow the ‘West Route’ and start from Spark Lane, cut through farmland and council-owned land to Boys Rd and on to Marsh Rd to the west of the wastewater ponds, before connecting with Lineside Rd via a new dual lane roundabout.

More information is available on the Major Projects page.

Woodend Bypass

Work is expected to get underway on Canterbury's much anticipated Woodend Bypass in early 2026.

The new road will be a 9km four-lane extension of SH1 north of Christchurch, running from the SH1/SH71 Lineside Road interchange and finishing just north of Pegasus. It also includes a bypass of Woodend to the east - a project that’s been part of future planning in North Canterbury for decades.

The Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency's (NZTA) board has approved funding for the initial works on the State Highway 1 (SH1) Belfast to Pegasus Motorway, including the Woodend Bypass.

For more details about the project visit the NZ Transport Agency project page.

Eastern Waimakariri Strategic Roading Programme

Waimakariri District has experienced significant growth for many years, particularly since the 2010 Earthquakes.

The population is expected to grow from approx. 70,000 to over 100,000 by 2054 and with continuing growth to the north-east of Rangiora and further development planned, this will increase traffic volumes accessing SH71 Lineside Road and SH1.

With limited alternatives to the Southbrook Road corridor, congestion and access issues are expected to worsen with continuing growth.

There are several initiatives included within Council Plans to help support the transport network. Click here to learn more.

SH1 Safety Improvements - Saltwater Creek to Cam River

Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) is moving ahead  with the Saltwater Creek to Cam River safety improvements. The combination of safety improvements will be an effective way to save lives and reduce harm on SH1.

There are a number of safety improvements including road widening, roundabout, changes to intersections, safety barriers, traffic lights and lover speed limits. Find out more about detailed plans and further updates from Waka Kotahi here.

Last reviewed date: 07 Apr 2025