Transit New Zealand is well into sealing, widening and improving the last remaining unsealed section of State Highway 1 in New Zealand.

Construction started in September 2007.

Sealing the road will create a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone who uses the road. The sealed surface will mean no more dust clouds, fewer accidents and a more comfortable trip to the Cape for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Cape Reinga has major cultural significance and is a nationally important tourist destination. Improving the road will enable more visitors to reach this beautiful part of New Zealand.

Because of the cultural and environmental significance of the area, Transit is working closely with the Department of Conservation (DOC) and local iwi to minimise the impacts of construction.

Through Transit's ecological and environmental management programme, long-term positive benefits will be delivered. Currently, stormwater washes material from the road surface into nearby waterways and contaminates them. Transit is creating new and more efficient drains to prevent this.

Dust clouds generated from the gravel surface settle on surrounding vegetation and choke the plants. The new smooth seal will solve this problem and improve air quality in the area.

The Far North is also likely to enjoy economic benefits from the projects as more visitors come to the area and local resources are used during construction.