Auckland Harbor Bridge
Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi

The Hīkoi mō te Tiriti convoy will cross Auckland’s Harbor Bridge this morning and commuters are encouraged to plan ahead to avoid traffic jams.

The New Zealand Waka Kotahi Transport Agency (NZTA) and police have confirmed that both outer lanes of the northbound bridge will be closed this morning until all hikoi participants have crossed safely.

The hikoi passes through Dargaville on Tuesday November 12, 2024.
Photo: Layla Bailey-McDowell / RNZ

The core of the hīkoi contingent, who traveled more than 400 kilometers from Te Rerenga Wairua to Auckland, will cross the bridge first at 9.30am.

Remaining groups of fewer than 200 people will follow at staggered times for safety reasons, while kaumātua will be transported by bus.

Superintendent Kelly Ryan, director of major operations, said the event remained peaceful and people’s safety was ensured.

“We clearly hope that the group crosses the Harbor Bridge safely and efficiently, in a controlled manner, before crossing parts of the CBD towards Ōkahu Bay.”

Road closed in Whangarei
Photo: RNZ/Layla Bailey-McDowell

Plan ahead to avoid and reduce traffic jams

Auckland commuters have been advised to expect longer delays during typical peak hour traffic jams.

Real-time updates will be posted on the NZTA website and the lanes will be reopened to traffic as soon as it is safe to do so.

The NZTA said other roads affected by the closures include:

• Stafford Road off-ramp
• Curran Street on-ramp
• South exit from Shelly Beach Road

Photo:

No major problems have been reported, apart from complaints about delays since the convoy’s journey began.

NZTA said traffic and roads will return to normal when it is safe to do so.

Meeting points Hīkoi mō te Tiriti

A series of gatherings will take place across Auckland after the hikoi cross the bridge, with Ōkahu Bay being the first stop.

The convoy will head to Takaparawhau (Bastion Point) where another rally will take place before heading south to Auckland,

Bastion Point
Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

At 1:30 p.m. the convoy will head south to Auckland where another rally will take place at Ihumātao, near Māngere.

The hīkoi is expected to depart for Rangiriri in Waikato shortly after 2 p.m.