State Highway 1 transformation

Following the opening of the Mackays to Peka Peka Expressway, the old State Highway 1 (SH1), between Poplar Avenue and Peka Peka, is no longer required for state highway purposes. The old highway has been transformed through the revocation process and it is now a fit-for-purpose local road. 

Latest update

22 April 2024 – Today Waka Kotahi | NZ Transport Agency handed over responsibility for the old State Highway 1 (SH1) between Poplar Avenue, Raumati, and Peka Peka to Council.

The old SH1, which will be renamed within the next 12 months, is now a key part of our local roading network. Waka Kotahi will remove its formal classification as a national highway, and Council will assume operational responsibility for maintaining the road.

We’re working through a list of minor works that require attention with Waka Kotahi as part of the handover process, but most of the major physical works are complete. Read the media release. 

Process

Transitioning SH1 to a local road is a formal process. It involves 'revoking' or removing SH1’s classification as a national highway and transferring responsibility for SH1 from Waka Kotahi (the NZ Transport Agency) to the Council.

We're working with Waka Kotahi to deliver a fit-for-purpose local road that improves our district's resilience and enhances connectivity across Kāpiti. The Poplar Avenue to Peka Peka Road section of SH1 will continue to operate as an emergency by-pass route.

Improving access to and from the Paraparaumu and Waikanae town centres, improving connections to and from rail and bus hubs, and enhancing cycling and walking options are key deliverables of this project. 

In making SH1 a fit-for-purpose local road, a variety of factors have been considered including the quality of the road, kerbs, shared paths, cycle lanes, planting and urban design, speed limits, and renaming of the road.

Further information

Transforming this stretch of highway into a local road is a joint initiative between Council and Waka Kotahi, with responsibility for the programme of physical works resting with Waka Kotahi. For more info, see NZTA's website. 

See the NZTA/Council project agreement [PDF 16.54 MB] for the revocation of SH1.