The finishing touches are being put on State Highway 25A in the Coromandel Peninsula, with the countdown on to the road reopening.
There's great excitement across the region but Waka Kotahi - NZ Transport Agency - is urging patience when the ribbon is cut next Wednesday.
The reconnection to the eastern seaboard has come three months earlier than expected and will see holidaymakers flock to the likes of Whangamatā, Pauanui and Hahei in time for the busy summer season.
Tairua business owner Maree Smith told AM after a long trading drought, the road reopening is "life-changing".
"We are ready to party", Smith said, "I've taken on extra staff, we'll be open seven days a week, from the time everyone is out for their coffees at 8 o'clock in the morning and we will stay open until the last person leaves."
Waka Kotahi - NZ Transport Agency - has provided an update on what to expect when rubber meets the road on the new 124-metre bridge.
The agency expects the road to be busy but is reminding motorists it is an active worksite, and there will be traffic management and temporary speed limits in place.
It's anticipated there will be sightseers but they are being asked to keep moving.
"It is not safe to stop and sightsee on or near the bridge. Road users need to keep moving through the site."
Traffic is expected to be heavy throughout the holiday period and the agency says they need everyone to do their bit to keep things flowing smoothly.
"Any closure of SH25A, weather or crash-related, has widespread impacts so be tolerant, keep a safe following distance and be conscious of those travelling behind you."
And they say just because SH25A is repaired, it doesn't mean there aren't other damaged roads still in need of attention in the region.
For the business owners, they are fizzing to get holidaymakers back in town.
"We want to see your smiling faces, we want to see you back at your baches, we want to see the tourists back," Smith said.
And she says they've pulled a few strings with the powers-that-be.
"We've spoken to the weather Gods, and we are going to have a super fine summer."
