Iconic Tourist Road to Re-open

Just seven months after the devastating December floods, the Totaranui Road in Golden Bay will officially reopen this Friday (29 June).

Severely damaged as a result of the heaviest rainfall the region has ever experienced, it was initially thought that the road was irreparable. However, close inspection showed that not only could it be repaired but at far less cost than first envisaged.

Repairs to the “special purpose” road were funded by the New Zealand Transport Agency and carried out by Fulton Hogan with Tasman District Council staff supervising the contract.

While the road is well used by holidaymakers during the summer months, it also provides a lifeline for a number of communities. Tasman District Council Mayor Richard Kempthorne said that he “was thrilled that the road will be open again, it is the only route to one of our iconic destinations and an important link for the local community”. “I would especially like to acknowledge the local landowners whose patience while the road repairs were carried out has been much appreciated”.

Richard also acknowledged the funding support from the New Zealand Transport Agency and the Council staff who worked with the contractors to get the road reopened in record time. “It is at times like this when we really see the value of everyone pulling together to get a job done”.

NZ Transport Agency Regional Director Jenny Chetwynd said the Agency was very pleased to see the road repairs completed with more than enough time before the holiday season starts. “This was a big job for our contractors and Tasman District Council and NZTA staff and we are very pleased with the end result”.

Around 70 people are expected to attend the official reopening celebration.