September 19th, 2024
New Zealand's Transport Minister, Michael Wood, has announced today the government's commitment to the swift reconnection of Coromandel peninsula, a critical lifeline for communities and businesses. The plan involves the repair and reconstruction of State Highway 25A, with a bridge identified as the fastest and most resilient solution.
"Coromandel communities and businesses need certainty that the investment will be made to repair and rebuild State Highway 25A. Today I can give that commitment,” said Wood.
A dedicated team of project managers and consulting engineers have been diligently exploring solutions, leading to the government's decision to fund the bridge. The road is an essential artery for many who travel across the peninsula for work or school and is integral to the local economy, particularly during the summer tourist season.
Wood acknowledged the disruptions currently experienced due to increased travel time and costs. He reassured communities that every possible effort is being made to reopen the road as soon as it is safe to do so.
The procurement process has already begun, with a contractor expected to be ready for construction by early June and completion projected for early next year.
“We’ve been working hard with the Thames-Coromandel District Council to repair and improve local roads ahead of winter and can confirm that the Tapu-Coroglen road will be open to light vehicles next month providing some extra connectivity across the peninsula," Wood added.
The minister also announced plans to work with local government and communities to develop a package of economic support to aid businesses that usually rely on the direct route onto the peninsula to attract customers, especially during the summer.
The government has already supported 400 businesses with grants up to $40,000, provided tax relief for impacted businesses, and will continue to work alongside Thames Coromandel District Council to extend support. Temporary accommodation services and Civil Defence payments have been provided to families and individuals affected in the region.
The estimated cost for the rebuild is between $30-40 million, which will be funded through the Government’s $250 million top-up to the National Land Transport Programme fund to support the recovery.