FEATURE
New expressway unlocks the golden triangle Opening the Hamilton section of the Waikato Expressway has unlocked the `Golden Triangle’ and is bringing significant benefits for transport operators. THE RECENTLY COMPLETED WAIKATO EXPRESSWAY IS A PRIME example of how first-class infrastructure can unlock the potential of a region, provide tangible economic gains and efficiencies, while delivering much-needed safety outcomes for the transport industry and other road users. In fact, it is so good, that some would suggest the Waikato Expressway should be the blueprint for how future critical roading infrastructure is delivered, minus the 30-year timeframe. With planning starting in the 1960’s, and construction commencing in the 1990’s for the Pokeno bypass and Tamahere interchange, it seems the efficiencies promised are indeed a reality
Brett Gliddon
78 | Truck & Driver
for users of this critical piece of roading infrastructure. Across the 102km of dual carriageway from Pokeno to south of Cambridge, motorists are able to travel at speeds seen in other countries but rarely experienced in New Zealand – the Waikato Expressway allows for 110km/h on the 78km stretch of road from Hampton Downs to its end near Cambridge. According to Brett Gliddon, General Manager Transport Services, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency: “The benefits for freight are significant with approximately 32% of all freight movements in New Zealand moving through the Waikato region, and these numbers are expected to increase to 50% over the next 30 years as our population grows. “There has long been much talk of unlocking the `Golden Triangle’ of Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga. This Golden Triangle refers to the movement of freight between the coastal ports of Auckland and Tauranga, supported in Hamilton by the Ruakura Superhub inland port. “A significant milestone was reached this year with the Ruakura Inland Port officially opened in Hamilton in September, with the first 9-hectares of what will eventually be a 30-hectare port. With 93% of all New Zealand freight moved by road – the remainder by rail or coastal shipping – improved efficiency by removing the stop/start nature of travelling through urban centres such as Hamilton, Huntly and Ngāruawāhia adds significant economic benefits.” Telematics data shows journey times have reduced by up to 30 minutes for freight moving through the region, with transport operators experiencing tangible benefits from faster journey times. Approximately one third of trucks now bypass Hamilton City without stopping.
