SH43 Forgotten World Highway

Project update – 5 August 2022

Tāngarākau Gorge stage one sealing now finished

Journeys along the Forgotten World Highway are now safer and easier, with first stage of sealing work through Tāngarākau Gorge complete.

Work began in November last year and included drainage works and the construction of new retaining walls and culverts. Pavement works and final sealing of the initial 2.1km section took place throughout March and April.

Despite the challenges of working in such a remote location, COVID-19 impacts, and severe weather events, contractor Inframax completed the first section of road on schedule.

Planning is also underway for sealing the remaining 10km section of road through the Tāngarākau Gorge. Construction will start later this year once we have the necessary warmer temperatures and fine weather to undertake this work. The remaining sealing work will happen over the next two construction seasons and is expected to be completed in early 2024.

With work complete for the season, traffic management has been removed and SH43 is fully open to traffic.

These improvements to SH43 are funded by Kānoa – Regional Economic Development and Investment Unit and the regional allocation of NZ Upgrade Programme.

Safety improvement works

Safety barries will be installed at three locations along SH43 over the next two months. These sites will be the first of a larger barrier package for the highway.

The initial barrier sites are located near Toko, at Whangamomona, and Aukopae.

We have also completed installation of approximately 220 safety warning signs, tree removal and rest areas sealing earlier in the year as part of the safety improvement works.

Recent wet weather impacts SH43

Crews are continuing to clear slips and debris from SH43, following recent severe weather in the region. There were more than 40 slips along the highway and the road was closed at the Tahora Saddle due to flooding. 

Multiple areas remain under temporary traffic control while awaiting geotechnical assessment. Delays of approximately 5-10 minutes can be expected until further notice.

Once all the slips have been cleared, crews will be working to clear the water table blockages and blocked culverts.

We would like to thank the local community for their patience and cooperation while these slips are cleared and a reminder to road users to take care on SH43 and drive to the conditions.

More information

For more information on the SH43 Forgotten World Highway project, contact us at fwh@nzta.govt.nz

Visit our website www.nzta.govt.nz/fwh