Harbour Link Stage 2

Higgins Role

To construct all pavements new and rehabilitated for the entire Harbourlink project. To surface all new structures and to mill and remix the existing harbour bridge.

Higgins Teams Involved

Contractors Bay of Plenty

Project Summary

This project provides a more efficient and quicker access between Tauranga and Mount Maunganui.  It reduces congestion on the existing harbour bridge and Hewletts Rd as well as the traffic bottleneck at Chapel Street/Marsh St.

Harbour Link was constructed in two stages. Stage 1, the four-laning of Hewletts Rd on the Mount Maunganui side of the harbour from Jean Batten Dr to the old toll plaza. This stage was completed in September 2007. Stage 2 site preparation began in February 2007 and involved the four laning of the bridge causeway, the construction of a duplicate harbour bridge and a four lane flyover from Takitimu Drive to the existing Harbour Bridge.

A major challenge for the project team was to construct new pavements and structures around, over and through an existing arterial route carrying traffic at full capacity.  One of the critical measures of success for this project was to deliver the contract with minimal inconvenience to motorists.  Working closely together, the Fletcher Construction and Higgins teams completed the project with quality outcomes, on time and importantly with minimal motorist disruption.  Detailed planning, strong technical ability, quality materials, a skilled workforce and the right equipment merged to achieve this landmark project for the Tauranga region.