Median strip for Moerewa

The NZ Transport Agency is to install a raised median strip to improve safety at the State Highway 1 intersection with Nisbet and Wynyard streets, preventing vehicles from crossing or turning right on to the highway,

Drivers will only be able to turn left into and out of both streets.

The NZTA’s Northland system manager, Jacqui HoriHoult, said the community had been consulted on, and supported the initiative, which was also expected to slow traffic travelling through the town.

Far North District councillor Kelly Stratford said the median strip would be a “good safety win” for Moerewa.

“Local community feedback supported the road narrowing and realignment as possible solutions for reducing cars racing around the Moerewa streets, and driving over speed limits along the state highway and side roads,” she said.

Work would start on Monday, and would take about two weeks to complete, with traffic management and a temporarily reduced speed limit to provide a safe work area for the construction crew.