South Island trucking companies will have to wait two years before their trucks can carry heavier cargo, though larger loads will be on North Island roads next year.
Documents obtained by Radio New Zealand under the Official Information Act show bridge-strengthening work required before heavier trucks can take to the roads is being carried out in the North Island first, as the Transport Agency prioritises its spending.
West Otago trucking company owner Bruce Robertson says the South Island produces just as many commodities as the north and should not have to wait.
NZTA freight portfolio director Harry Wilson says with half the country's population living north of Taupo, it makes sense to prioritise North Island bridges.
He says all the country's bridges will be upgraded within three years.
