5 Apr 2018

Up to 15 overnight tunnel closures may be required between July and December during work on the $28.7 million Lyttelton Tunnel fire protection upgrade project.

Single-lane closures between 9pm and 5.30am have been confirmed for 8 to 10 April, and 12 and 19 April. Some single-lane closures are also forecast for May and June.

A new deluge fire suppression system and a large reservoir are being installed to boost tunnel safety and reduce the risk of closures.

The tunnel portal buildings are also undergoing earthquake strengthening and a new wastewater pipe will help futureproof services in Lyttelton and the bays.

The pump house is nearly complete and the ground work is well under way for the large reservoir. A 200-metre-long pipe is being laid to feed water from the reservoir to the pump house.

The New Zealand Transport Agency says tunnel users and local residents will be notified of planned closures to minimise disruption to motorists and the community.

Work on the tunnel is due to be completed by the end of the year.