SH2 Melling Transport Improvements
Information on this page was last updated on 30 January 2026.
As part of the Melling Transport Improvements, NZ Transport Agency (through the Delivery Alliance of AECOM and Fletcher Construction) will build a new grade-separated interchange and remove the existing Melling/Tirohanga traffic lights, among other transport improvements in Lower Hutt.
The project aims to provide better access to and from State Highway 2 and Lower Hutt, meaning less congestion and more efficient travel during peak periods, as well as improvements to safety for roads users by removing the existing conflicting right-hand turn movements.
Check out the design for the new interchange at Melling, bridge over Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River, relocated Melling Station and new signalised intersections at Queens Dr/Rutherford St and Queens Dr/High St overlaid on the map below.
Other benefits include:
- new and improved walking and cycling paths (including connections to Te Ara Tupua) and shared paths from 4 to 4.5m wide over the SH2 and the river
- fewer pedestrian crossings to improve traffic flow and safety
- upgraded connections for Tirohanga and Harbour View communities, and
- better access to quality public transport (including relocation of the Melling train station and its park and ride facilities).
Watch our flyover video below to see what’s included in the transport improvements at Melling, and keep reading to learn what's happening now on both the eastern (city) and western sides of Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River.
What's happening now?
Eastern Zone (city side)
Meet our Eastern Zone Construction Manager Shane, who explains what’s happening in the Queens Drive / Rutherford Street / Riverbank Car Park area over the next few years.
As you can see, there’s plenty to do in a small area. Our job is to get the work done as quickly and efficiently as possible, while keeping everyone moving around the city as well as we can while we build this transformational project.
Western Zone
Meet our Western Zone Construction Manager Richard, who explains some of the early works needed to prepare for the new SH2 interchange at Melling.
As with the eastern zone, we’re doing a lot in a fairly small area. We’re working as quickly as we can – balancing the delivery of this transformational project with keeping everyone safe, and moving around the city while we work.
About this work
The Melling Transport Improvements is a one of the Government’s Roads of Regional Significance (RoRS) and is a key part of the wider Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi programme, which includes flood protection work and city centre infrastructure upgrades being delivered by Greater Wellington Regional Council and Hutt City Council.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi signed the Alliance delivery contract with AECOM and Fletcher Construction in April 2025. Main construction begins this year, following site establishment in September 2025.
For more information on NZTA's Melling Transport Improvements, visit www.nzta.govt.nz/melling
An artist’s impression is shown below.
