To reduce speeds and make it safer for people to cross the main road through Matatā, Whakatāne District Council is installing two new raised crossings.

Council Team Leader Capital Projects David Wathall said the Matatā community has had it with people speeding through the township and asked Council to do something to improve safety – particularly over the busy summer period.

“With the busy Department of Conservation campsite and the beach on one side of Arawa Street, and shops and takeaways on the other, it is incredibly important we slow vehicles down so families can cross the road safely,” he said.

“To help achieve this, we’ll be installing two raised crossings in the town. One outside the Matatā Hotel and the other near the Matatā Liquor Centre.

“This project will help make the main street through Matatā a safer and more enjoyable space for both locals and visitors to spend their time.

“We advise that people plan for a longer travel time, as these works are happening at the same time as the major safety upgrades to Thornton Road.

“Trucks and heavy vehicles are advised to take State Highway 2 through to Whakatāne.”

Work on the crossings is starting next week and is likely to take a couple of months to complete, weather dependent.

During construction, the street will be reduced to one lane at times with Stop-Go controls in place.

During this time, the Matatā shops will be open as usual with parking always available.

Arawa Street, Matatā before the safety improvements take place.