Those travelling on State Highway 2 between Awakeri and Taneatua from Monday to Wednesday this coming week are reminded to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys, due to a closure of the Pekatahi Bridge for maintenance works.

"Due to the narrow width of the bridge, it needs to be closed to ensure this work can be carried out safely," says an NZTA spokesperson.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises the closure will be in place between 8.30am and 4.30pm each day from Monday July 12 to Wednesday July 14, while contractors are on site to replace a section of handrail that was recently damaged.

"The closure has been scheduled during the school holidays to minimise disruption to motorists."

There will be a detour in place for northbound traffic, using Taneatua Road, Arawa Road, Hinemoa Street and on to State Highway 30 towards Awakeri.

Southbound traffic should use the same route, in reverse. This detour is expected to take 20 minutes and is suitable for High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMV).

Outside work hours the road will operate as normal.

In the event of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances, work may be postponed.

Visit the interactive Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz) for the latest information on roadworks, traffic, road closures and detours to help plan your trip.

Waka Kotahi thanks motorists for their patience.