NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

SH6 Hope Bypass

24 November 2025


 

Lastest update on the Hope Bypass

As you may have seen, the Prime Minister and Transport Minister recently announced the next phase of the Roads of National Significance (RoNS) package. These are major transport projects that, once completed, will support economic growth and productivity, reduce congestion, improve safety, support housing development, and provide a more resilient roading network.

One of the RoNs within this announcement is the Hope Bypass.

We’ve completed the Investment case for the Hope Bypass, which has been endorsed by the NZTA Board. The investment case informs the decision to invest in the project.

We’re now starting the detailed design phase of changes between SH6 Salisbury interchange (SH6/Link Rd roundabout) to SH60 Appleby Highway and SH6 Gladstone Road intersection. (Stages 1 and 2 identified in the map below.)

SH6 provides a vital regional connection between Port Nelson and the wider Upper South Island, supporting communities, freight movement, and economic activity. It links people and goods to key destinations across the region, including business hubs and residential areas.

Travel demand on SH6 regularly exceeds capacity during peak periods, particularly along the Richmond Deviation. This results in delays and unreliable journey times, with congestion often spilling onto local roads as drivers seek alternative routes.

As regional growth and travel demand continue to rise, journey times and reliability will deteriorate further.

Early next year we will also start geo-tech investigations, surveying and other technical assessments. This will lay the groundwork required for future construction.

This next phase will include engagement with impacted landowners.

Timeframes for the construction phase of this project are yet to be finalised.

We will provide further updates on the project as we progress through investigations and design in early 2026. 

 

 

Community drop-in sessions

With the announcement that design is starting on the Hope Bypass, those wanting to know more about the project and meet the team can do so.

Come along to our community drop-in sessions from 27-29 November, where you can meet the NZTA project team and ask any questions you have about the project.

The public information days are just a part of ongoing engagement we have underway. We'll also continue to meet and discuss the proposals with Councils, iwi, landowners, and other key stakeholders.

  • Thursday 27 November – Sundial Square, Richmond – 8.30am – 1pm
     
  • Friday 28 November – Crossbow Coffee Café/Caltex grass area (149b Salisbury Road) – 7.30 – 11.30am (please park on Champion Road and not the business carparks unless you are visiting the businesses.)
     
  • Saturday 29 November – Connings Appleby – 8.30am – 1pm

Full project information as well as details about the information days can be found on the project webpage.

We look forward to meeting you at these drop-in sessions. 

 

 

More information

 
 

For more information on the Mill Road project, contact us at hopebypass@nzta.govt.nz

Visit our website www.nzta.govt.nz/sh6-hope-bypass.