IT’S OPEN!

Drive through the Waterview Tunnel today

After years of construction and $1.4 billion in spending, the long-awaited Waterview Tunnel has finally opened.

The country’s longest tunnel was due to open to traffic about 6am today.

Transport Minister Simon Bridges said the opening marked the most significant change in Auckland’s transport system since the Harbour Bridge opened in 1959. The tunnel was sceduled to open in April, but that was pushed back because of continued testing and commissioning of complex systems for safety purposes.

NZTA did not announce the exact opening time of the 2.4km tunnel in advance, citing safety reasons.

Bridges said the economic benefits of the tunnel were estimated at $430 million, through improved productivity and reduced travel time.

The project created more than 18,000 jobs during construction.

“The Waterview Tunnel will transform the way people and freight move around the city, providing more options and a more efficient, resilient and reliable transport system,” Bridges said.

“Investing in Auckland’s motorway system in this way will reduce the cost of doing business throughout the country and plays a strong role in supporting Auckland’s growing population.”

The tunnel completes a key link in the 48km western motorway ring route.

Next month, the Southwestern Shared Path opens alongside the motorway, between the southern end of the tunnel and the Maioro St interchange.

The striking Te Whitinga (Hendon footbridge) that spans the motorway will also open to connect New Windsor and Owairaka.