The push is on to improve a deadly stretch of State Highway Two north of Tauranga

From 2006 until August last year, 30 people lost their lives and 80 were seriously injured in crashes between Omokoroa and Waihi.

The first stage of a 101-million-dollar project will finish on time in July, with all improvements expected to be finished in 2023.

They include widening the centre line to keep vehicles apart, upgrading 26 intersections, and adding safety barriers.