Work to pedestrianise the summit of One Tree Hill in Auckland is set to begin later this month.

The Maungakiekie summit road, which is extremely narrow in places, has long been criticised as one of the most unsafe roads for visitors.

Pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles all compete for space, with near-misses regularly reported.

Work will start on re-configuring the summit road entrance off Olive Grove and installing a new automated gate on March 26.

When finished, the Auckland landmark will permanently close to all motor vehicles including motorbikes and scooters.