Ashburton District residents are being warned about traffic congestion on State Highway 1 this weekend, with extra traffic expected because of an event in Christchurch.

Road works on the highway near the Longbeach Road turnoff are causing disruption, especially with northbound traffic being detoured via Maronan Road during the week day.

Group Manager of Infrastructure Neil McCann said a section of highway was being repaired by NZTA contractors and traffic management was needed to keep road crews and the in-progress repairs safe.

“We know that NZTA’s contractors are keeping an eye on the numbers of vehicles being detoured on Maronan Road, and will adjust the traffic management accordingly. Locals who regularly use that road should watch out for extra traffic and drivers unfamiliar with the area.

“The northbound traffic is being diverted from SH1 to Winslow Westerfield Road, and then right into Maronan Road, so everybody needs to take care at these particular intersections, because mistakes can happen.”

The Maronan Road detour is from 6am until 6pm on week days only, and outside of those times the highway will have a single lane operating, with temporary traffic lights. People using the highway should expect delays.

A 30km/h speed restriction will be in place on the highway at the site of the road works, which are scheduled to finish on 11 March.