The Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency project has won the project category of the International Erosion Control Association Environmental Excellence Awards, which celebrate innovation and outstanding achievement in the industry. The motorway project is being built by Fletcher Construction and Acciona on behalf of the Northern Express Group NX2.

The motorway is to improve safety and resilience on this strategic route connecting Auckland and Northland, but the project team is also delivering on a commitment to enhance and protect the environment that the motorway passes through, leaving it in a better state. The Ara Tuhono Puhoi to Warkworth motorway is being built to high environmental standards with a focus on protecting native species and waterways, as well as significant planting and restoration works