The Kawarau Gorge will receive a $3.9 million upgrade under the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA)’s Southern Resilience Project.

The investigation is now complete of State Highway 6 from Cromwell to Frankton, and a detailed design underway.

MP for Southland/Central Otago Joseph Mooney said the investment in Southern infrastructure, along with the boost for tourism promotion is excellent news for both locals and visitors.

“Travellers to the lower South Island inject a huge amount of energy into the southern economy. These projects to improve key road networks and promote southern hospitality will further enhance the amazing experience visitors have when exploring the lower South Island.”

The Kawarau Gorge is used by up to 6000 vehicles a day, but the 41km stretch of road is susceptible to natural hazards including rockfall, landslides or weather-related events. 

NZTA said when unplanned closures happen, there are limited detours - and those available add significant travel time and distance. Unplanned closures may become more common, due to climate changes, resulting in increased levels of disruption.

The upgrade will involve installation of monitoring equipment for a corridor management plan and a management strategy for The Narrows.

SH6 from Frankton to Kingston has also been approved for an upgrade ( $1.6 million) and SH94 from Milford Sound to Te Anau Downs ($2 million).

“It’s great to see these key routes being given the high priority they deserve. Improving them will help the increasing number of visiting tourists and locals move safely around the South,” Joseph said.

The national Crown Resilience Programme came about after severe weather events in 2023, which highlighted crucial investment in early preventative works to protect the transport network.

The Government invested $419 million into resilience improvement activities that will reduce the impact of severe weather events on the national roading networks. 

The total crown resilience programme comprises $279 million for activities on state highways, and $140 million for activities on local roads.

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