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Penlink Highway Opening Delayed to Late 2029 Amid Budget Hikes

3/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Penlink highway opening in Auckland is delayed to late 2029.
Stephen Collett of the NZ Transport Agency says the delay stems from difficult ground conditions and limited site access on the Weiti River Bridge.
The highway would provide a North Auckland link, reducing peak travel times by up to 26 minutes and easing congestion at SH1 Silverdale.
The original budget of $830 million is likely to increase due to delays.

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Story summary

The Penlink highway opening in Auckland is delayed to late 2029.
Stephen Collett of the NZ Transport Agency says the delay stems from difficult ground conditions and limited site access on the Weiti River Bridge.
The highway would provide a North Auckland link, reducing peak travel times by up to 26 minutes and easing congestion at SH1 Silverdale.
The original budget of $830 million is likely to increase due to delays.