All non-essential work on state highways will cease when the country goes into lockdown.
Photo: 123RF File photo
The Transport Agency said contractors and sub-contractors have been advised to shut down work from tomorrow.
Some critical state highway maintenance work and emergency work would continue, and staff would also stay in traffic control operations centres, to ensure the state highway network remains safe for essential travel.
The Transport Agency would make sure all temporarily closed worksites were safe.
General manager transport services Brett Gliddon said while there would be an impact on the timelines for some projects, the effect of the shutdown on specific projects wouldn't be known for some time.
"Our immediate focus is on ensuring the health and safety of workers and the wider community during this very difficult time. We are committed to doing our part as New Zealand comes together to respond to this unprecedented challenge."
One project affected is SH60 on Takaka Hill Road.
The Transport Agency said the current night closures of the Takaka Hill Road will halt immediately.
SH60 was damaged in a severe storm two years ago and the final and most significant series of repairs had just started.
Week night closures had been scheduled to allow workers to complete the task.
An agency spokesperson said the road will be open to one lane, controlled by traffic lights.