What is the purpose of the upcoming work in our area?
We’re undertaking critical upgrade work along Shortland Street and High Street. This includes the replacement of an aging substation assets and installation of new 22,000 volts cables.
While we’re there, we’re taking the opportunity to upgrade both the electrical and gas networks and repair aging assets. This reduces the need to come back later.
When will the work take place?
Work is scheduled from mid - July to late September 2025.
Who is carrying out the work?
Vector is managing the project with civil work delivered by our contractor, Stockman General Contractors, and electrical work undertaken by Northpower.
When are you closing High Street?
A recent investigation discovered that the underground area is extremely complex, including possible archaeological structures, making civil and electrical work extra challenging and health and safety paramount. We’ve managed to find a small area that’s safe so we can complete the work quickly and is in line with Auckland Transport requirements.
It means we need to stop traffic flow along the lower section of High Street (from Shortland Street to Freyberg Place) for approximately eight days during this time. This closure is planned to take place between either 31 July or 1 August for approximately 8 days. We're committed to minimising traffic closures wherever site conditions allow.
What is the nature of the civil work that you will be undertaking?
The work includes trenching from 5 Shortland Street to 5 High Street to install cable ducting, there will also be excavations where cables will be hauled from and jointed in, within the area.
Why is this work happening now instead of waiting for the High Street Improvement project to start?
Given their age, these assets have reached a end of life stage and pose a significant risk of future service interruptions if not addressed promptly.
We understand this poses additional disruption to your community and we appreciate your patience. This has been a vital consideration, and we always aim to get the job done as quickly and quietly as we can. We’ve explored every possible scenario to balance the impact on customers while collaborating with other stakeholders and service providers. Please be assured that we’ve left no stone unturned.
How will the traffic management measures affect my daily commute?
There will be some changes to how traffic moves through the area:
- Access will be always maintained for pedestrians and vehicles throughout Shortland Street and High Street.
- We will be constructing a temporary ramp on Shortland Street to enable two-way traffic flow, allowing vehicles to travel smoothly and safely.
- We will be introducing temporary traffic lights for pedestrians and displaying large signs letting people know the shops remain open.
To enable the safe delivery of the works, parking has been altered around the worksite. Loading zones, mobility parking and car share parking locations have all been considered carefully.
How will power outages be managed?
There will be some power outages outside business operational hours to safely complete electrical work. We’ll notify you separately ahead of time with all the details so you can prepare.
How will noise and disruption be managed?
Most of the work will happen between 7am and 6pm. There will be low to medium noise on an intermittent basis during these times. There may be times when we need to complete critical work that requires us to work up to 10pm, this will be on an as needed basis.
Will pedestrian access be affected?
We may need to temporarily close parts of the footpath for safety. However, wayfinding signs will help guide pedestrians and show that businesses remain open.
Who can I contact if I have further questions or concerns?
If you have any questions or concerns about the work, please contact Lisa Jenkins of Stockman General Contractors Limited on mobile 021 329 982 or email
lisa@sgc.co.nz. Additionally, you can reach out to Vector's Customer Service Team for assistance at
0508 832 867.
What measures are in place to ensure safety during the construction period?
Safety is a top priority. Measures include:
- Clearly marked and secured work zones
- Temporary fencing and barriers
- Signage
- Trained staff and experienced traffic controllers on-site always
Are local businesses still open?
Yes! All businesses along Shortland Street and High Street remain open during the work. Please continue to support them – wayfinding signs will help guide you.
Will emergency services still have access?
Yes. We’ve coordinated with emergency services to ensure they can always access, even while work is underway.
Will delivery drivers and service vehicles still be able to reach businesses and buildings?
Yes. Our traffic management team will support access for delivery and service vehicles. Some minor delays may occur, but we’re working hard to keep things moving smoothly. We’ll also have signage in the area with information on delivery and loading zones.
What happens if there’s bad weather?
Some work may be rescheduled in the event of poor weather. We have allowed additional time in our programme as a contingency for the typical weather we are expecting over the coming months. Any delays will be communicated as soon as possible via our usual update channels.
What happens once the work is done?
We’ll complete full reinstatement of any affected footpaths, streetlights, outdoor seating or road surfaces. Where temporary materials were used during the project, these will be replaced with permanent surfaces that match the existing streetscape as closely as possible.
What happens if the project is delayed?
We’ll keep the community informed of any timeline changes through letter drops signage, and updates to our key stakeholder group.