New Tauranga toll point sparks debate as Pāpāmoa East Interchange opens soon
A new tolling point will soon appear on the Tauranga Eastern Link (TEL) near the upcoming Pāpāmoa East Interchange. The interchange, connecting Te Okuroa Drive to the TEL, is set to open next week. Drivers will face new charges, though a toll-free period remains in place until late 2026. The decision to add a second tolling point follows a recommendation by the NZTA board. Despite low public support during a 2022 consultation, the Minister of Transport approved the plan, and Cabinet gave final approval. The new toll will operate between Domain Rd and the Pāpāmoa East Interchange.
Pricing will vary depending on the route. Light vehicles travelling the full TEL length—or between the new interchange and Paengaroa—will pay $2.30. Heavy vehicles will be charged $5.60 for the same stretch. For the shorter section between Domain Rd and Pāpāmoa East, light vehicles face a $1.10 fee, while heavy vehicles will pay $2.80. The TEL has collected about $79 million in tolls since opening in 2015. The Pāpāmoa East Interchange, expected to ease commutes, will open by Easter, likely in 2026. However, no specific traffic volume data or usage projections for the new section have been released.
The toll changes will take effect after the current toll-free period ends in late 2026. Drivers using the TEL will then pay new fees based on their route and vehicle type. The Pāpāmoa East Interchange will provide a direct link to Te Okuroa Drive, altering travel patterns in the region.
