State Highway One over the Brynderwyn Hills, a vital passage linking Northland to the rest of the country, will fully close while damage done during Cyclone Gabrielle is repaired.
Waka Kotahi says official closure dates and detour routes will be confirmed next month, working around key dates such as Waitangi Day and Easter.
It's left business groups in the North frustrated at the lack of strong infrastructure, which they say is restricting the region's economic growth.
Whangārei mayor Vince Cocurullo spoke to Corin Dann.
