It has been called the most dangerous stretch of road in the country based on traffic volumes and crashes.
Scene of a crash on the dangerous stretch of road. Photo: SUPPLIED
It is State Highway 2 between Tauranga and Waihi which on average carries about 22,000 cars a day.
Locals say it is unsafe and is just not meeting the requirements of urban growth and traffic in the area.
The Transport Agency has plans to improve the road but some local people think it's to little and will take too long.
The Mayor of Western Bay of Plenty Garry Webber said the road has not kept up with his district's 25-percent increase in population.
A district councillor, Peter MacKay who travels the road a lot said it was designed in the 50's and 60's for far less traffic and a speed of 80-kilometres an hour.
However, he said it can be driven safely, but with a priviso.
"If one takes great care, but if there are any mistakes made it is unforgiving and very dangerous."
Five Tongan men were killed on the road outside the Aongatete Coolstore and Packhouse last year after their van was hit by a truck as they left work.
The Managing Director, Allan Dawson said he constantly worries about his staff's safety on the road.
Beth Bowden, who lives at Te Puna, compares State Highway 2 to a fish-bone, with the main road being the spine.
She said it is a major highway with many entry and exit points.
Another local, Richard Comyn said he is upset that infrastructure, like decent roads, has not kept up with development.
Terry Molloy, who chairs the AA's Bay of Plenty District Council said the whole stretch of the 60-kilometre road is not up to standard.
"It all needs attention."
The Transport Agency has come up with a Waihi to Tauranga roading plan to be brought in in stages over the next eight to ten years subject to funding approval.
It includes a new road between Tauranga and Omokoroa, a bypass at Katikati and safety improvements along the rest of the route, including barriers and intersection upgrades.
NZTA said its priority is to prevent people dying or being seriously injured on the stretch of road between Tauranga and Waihi.
The Mayor Garry Webber said it's a sad reality that there will be serious accidents and maybe fatalities on the road this holiday season.
