Improving inter-regional connectivity
The Te Ahu a Tūranga, Manawatū-Tararua Highway will create a much-needed faster, resilient and safe east-west State Highway replacement route between Palmerston North and Tararua following the Manawatū Gorge closure in April 2017.
The new highway will reconnect communities both regionally and nationally, boost the efficient movement of freight, and create jobs. The opportunity is being taken to also provide a safe walking and cycling link.
A partnership with iwi during the project will provide Māori employment, Māori and local procurement, training and upskilling.
A total of $620 million will be invested in the new highway, for which the “sod turning” to mark the start of construction was held in December 2020.
Construction is planned to commence in early 2021 with the project on track to be open to the public in December 2024.