Westland District Council welcomes the Government’s further investment in strengthening the resilience of State Highway 6 (SH6), with $5 million of work to commence at the Gates of Haast. The project adds important momentum to recent decisions on the Epitaph Slip site and reinforces the national significance of the South Island loop.
Mayor Helen Lash says the announcement provides confidence for communities, visitors, and industries that rely on SH6 every day.
“We are extremely grateful for this continued investment in our transport resilience,” Mayor Lash says. “The Gates of Haast work is a critical addition to the improvements recently confirmed for Epitaph Slip. Together, these projects strengthen one of the most important corridors in the South Island, supporting residents, tourism, freight, and the wider economy.”
Mayor Lash acknowledged Associate Transport Minister James Meager for recognising the importance of this section of the network.
“I want to thank Minister Meager for listening to the needs of the West Coast and wider South Island, and for ensuring this work has progressed. SH6 is exposed, vulnerable and absolutely essential. Government support for resilience investment is vital to keeping our communities connected and our industries operating with certainty.”
She also acknowledged the ongoing support of MP Maureen Pugh, whose strong advocacy in Wellington continues to ensure West Coast priorities are well understood at the national level.
The Gates of Haast project will strengthen the Haast River bridge and surrounding corridor through upgraded erosion protection, installation of a micro-pile retaining wall, foundation works, and a new rock barrier. The project is expected to take approximately five months and will involve temporary traffic management, reduced speeds, and short daytime delays.
Mayor Lash says resilience upgrades like these are crucial for long-term safety and economic security.
“This corridor is a lifeline. Ensuring it is reliable, protected and future-ready benefits not only the Coast, but the entire South Island tourism circuit. This is exactly the type of investment that keeps our communities accessible and our region resilient.”
Westland District Council will continue to work closely with NZTA and the Government to support ongoing improvements along SH6 and advocate for long-term resilience across the network.
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For further information please contact:
Westland District Council:Communications@westlanddc.govt.nz