Improving road safety along Leigh Road, Whangateau

About this project

We’re making Leigh Road safer by adding new safety measures for people driving through Whangateau. This project is funded by the Rodney Local Board Transport Capital Fund.

Our investigations show that improvements are needed to help drivers safely navigate the bend between #486 and #498 Leigh Road. These improvements will reduce the likelihood of a crash on this winding rural road and ensure everyone gets to where they need to go and home safely.

The changes we’re making in 2026

• Widening the road along the bend of 486-498 Leigh Road.
• Install a new retaining wall on the southbound direction, to accommodate for the widening of the road.
• Install a new flush median to help drivers better navigate the bend and improve safety.
• Realign the footpath to accommodate the wider road.

A drawing showing the changes can be found here.

Benefits to the community:

• Safer journeys – The improvements help reduce the risk of crashes and make it safer for everyone using the road.
• Safer roads – The improvements help to make sure vehicles can safely navigate the bend without encroaching onto pedestrian areas.
• New road markings – Improve safety by helping drivers clearly identify the bend and navigate it safely.

What happens next

• We will be in touch with local residents and businesses before any work takes place.
• Any change to the plan will be updated on our website.

How to contact us

If you’d like to discuss our plans, share what you know about your area or let us know if there’s anything we’ve missed, email us at ATEngagement@at.govt.nz by 10 April 2026.

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