Te Puke Highway is expected to be closed for up to three weeks, starting February 14.

Weather permitting, resealing work will begin on the highway, between Poplar Lane and Welcome Bay Rd.

'To ensure the quality and safety of the road surface, we need to fully reseal the lane where a new water pipe was laid,” says a Tauranga City Council spokesperson.

'To be able to undertake this work and keep both motorists and construction staff safe, one lane of Te Puke Highway will need to be closed off.”

Southbound traffic towards Te Puke will be diverted via Tara, Parton and Bell Road, then flow back on to Te Puke Highway.

The diversion will increase travel time by up to 10 minutes, depending on the time of day.

'This type of work can be disruptive and we acknowledge the inconvenience of a detour to commuters who regularly use this stretch of road.

'Traffic travelling from Te Puke towards Tauranga will continue to use Te Puke Highway, with speed restrictions in place.

'With work of this nature, bad weather could cause the work to be postponed. We will be monitoring the weather and digital signs will keep motorists updated on any possible changes in the timing of the work.

'We appreciate drivers' patience and apologise for any inconvenience this work may cause. 'Please consider the safety of staff and other drivers when passing works.”

This work is part of the Waiāri Water Supply Scheme. Visit: www.tauranga.govt.nz/waiari for more information.