Electricity network upgrades taking place next week mean people travelling on SH6 between Maungawera and Makarora will need to factor substantial wait times into their trips.

Aurora Energy is upgrading the electricity network along the highway between December 4 and 8.

“Road closures will be in effect for 20-minute intervals, to allow for the various traffic management sites,” Aurora Energy said in a statement.

“We ask that everyone please factor in an additional travel time.”

The affected hours are 8am-5pm.

During the closure period, Aurora will be replacing 50 power poles.

It will also replace 16 crossarms and repair another four power poles.

“Some of the poles are located in complex locations and helicopters and cranes will be used to complete the work as safely as possible,” Aurora Energy said.

“Aurora Energy thanks customers for their patience while this important work is being carried out.”

The electricity lines company - which powers 200,000 properties across Otago - is undertaking a multi-year series of improvements across its entire lines network. 

In October it launched a new website to provide better information to customers during power outages. 

See also: New website for power outages.

PHOTO: Wānaka App