Christchurch City Council contractors have launched the final phase of resurfacing on Halswell Junction Road to fix substandard earlier work and respond to mounting community frustration.
Resurfacing works are continuing between just north of McTeigue Road and just south of Nicholls Road, with a northbound one-way system in place from 9am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday.
Southbound traffic was being detoured, and traffic will flow as normal outside these hours.
The Council said resurfacing was necessary following quality assurance checks and community feedback that identified defects such as bumps, slumps, and vibration issues on the road.
Vibrations caused by uneven road surfaces were one of the most common complaints from residents, along with concerns about traffic noise and loose chip.
“We understand all this work has been inconvenient and want to thank residents for their continued patience,” a Christchurch City Council spokesperson said.
“We’ve worked hard with our contractor (Higgins)to package the final works into one programme that will deliver a smoother, safer road.”
“All remedial work will be completed using asphalt rather than chipseal, which will provide a more durable and quieter surface. We’re also using trenching techniques to strengthen the road base before laying new asphalt to handle the weight of vehicles,” the spokesperson said.
The project will also include the application of microsurfacing treatment to two roundabouts: Wigram Road/Whincops Road and Hamill Road/Alvaston Drive.
This method creates a waterproof seal, improving durability and reducing the risk of potholes.
Several intersecting roads will also be closed or restricted for 1–3 days during the work, with exact dates depending on the stage of resurfacing.
Affected roads include Wigram Road, Alvaston Drive, Oldham Crescent, Murphys Road, Denali Street, Whincops Road, and Hamill Road.
Detours will be signposted, and dates are subject to change due to weather the council said.
Nicholls Road will remain open in both directions, but delays are expected as access will be managed with stop/go controls.
Signage has been placed to alert residents, though the Council acknowledged that some early signs may not accurately reflect the full extent of closures or restrictions.
“We’re committed to completing this project to a high standard while minimising disruption. The community has been incredibly patient, and we believe this final phase will resolve the surface and vibration concerns raised over recent months,” the spokesperson said.
Concerns from residents have been addressed through direct responses, Council service requests, and engagement with the local councillor Andrei Moore.
