On Sunday, May 18, more than 200 concerned Manakau locals gathered at the Manakau Hall to hear NZTA representatives present changes to 20% of the planned, consented, and much-anticipated Ō2NL expressway.

Many residents had heard rumours, but the extent of the changes left the community feeling shocked, blindsided, betrayed and disappointed. The announcement that these changes were going to the NZTA board for approval on June 19 allowed minimal time for the community to express their concerns, giving the arrogant impression that local input was not required.

A significant concern for residents was removal of the overbridge linking Manakau Heights to the village. The original plan included a pedestrian/cycle bridge, which was later upgraded to accommodate vehicles after representations from emergency services and locals. Manakau identity Frank Hamlin had donated land to Horowhenua District Council about 2000 to link his subdivision with the village, incurring considerable expense due to higher requirements for a local road, which necessitated deepening the original farm track to meet the required grade. His generosity being rendered ineffective is disheartening to his memory.

Without the overbridge, the village will have only one heavy vehicle entry and exit over the double-tracked railway. This crossing can be closed by trains waiting for a clear track, potentially delaying emergency services, which could be critical in life-threatening situations.

While there is light vehicle access from SH1 to the village via the underpass on Honi Taipua Street, it is nearing the end of its effective life and cannot be relied upon long-term.

The rationale behind the numerous downgrades is that NZTA must adhere to the budget established several years ago. While the National Party and their local MP Tim Costley had campaigned for the completion of the project, they now appear to overlook the fact that the voters voted for Ō2NL to be completed as originally planned; the various downgrades do not reflect what was voted for.

The alteration from a full interchange at Tararua Road to a roundabout seems particularly imprudent, given the impending completion of the new Tara Ika suburb development. While Tara Ika will have an alternative access to Levin via the Queen Street overbridge, Manakau will have only one, and that will not be available 100% of the time.

Come on NZTA and government, find the funds to do this once and do it right!

Judy is a lifetime resident of Horowhenua and has lived in Manakau for 36 years.