NZTA finally discloses $2.1b estimated budget for Ōtaki to North of Levin highway

The new highway will bypass Levin, pictured, and deliver faster and safer journeys. (Image: NZTA)

Mon, 04 Aug 2025

The budget for a lower North Island highway has increased to $2.1 billion after the board of the New Zealand Transport Agency tipped in $427 million of extra funds.Last week, Transport Minister Chris Bishop said contracts had been signed with two alliances to construct the northern and southern sections of the 24-kilometre Ōtaki to North of Levin (O2NL) highway.The project is one of 17 roads of national significance (Rons).When it was first included in the NZ Upgrade Programme under the last Government, the highway was estimated to cost $817m.B...

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