Te Rapa Bypass

Year Completed: 2012

The Te Rapa Bypass project was a major transport upgrade in Hamilton, designed to improve traffic flow, safety, and connectivity along State Highway 1. Completed in 2012, the 7.3-kilometer four-lane expressway diverts traffic away from Te Rapa’s industrial and commercial areas, reducing congestion and improving travel times between Auckland and the Waikato.

The project included new interchanges, upgraded local roads, and improved pedestrian and cycling facilities. As part of its environmental initiatives, more than 200,000 native plants were planted along the corridor to enhance biodiversity and reduce the project’s ecological impact. These upgrades have significantly improved safety and efficiency on SH1, supporting Hamilton’s growth and New Zealand’s national transport network.