Described by one Tararua District councillor as an “engineering marvel,” the 11.5-kilometre, four-lane highway replaces former State Highway 3 through the Manawatū Gorge, which was permanently closed following a major slip in 2017.
The new highway has been constructed by an alliance of partners, including WSP. It's been designed to be safer, more efficient, and resilient to weather and seismic events.
Two major bridge structures feature on the new route, including Parahaki Bridge, which spans the Manawatū River. The route also includes four minor structures, terraced retaining walls, two roundabouts, stormwater systems, stream diversions, and almost two million native plants.
WSP Major Projects Director Keryn Kliskey and the project’s Construction Phase Services Manager Wayne Stewart say WSP is proud to have played a key role in such a landmark project.
“As part of the project alliance, WSP brought together local knowledge and global expertise to help restore this critical transport link between the Manawatū, Tararua, Hawke’s Bay and Wellington regions.
“From design and structures to geometrics and environmental solutions, our people worked collaboratively with partners and stakeholders every step of the way.”
A key aspect of the project was the active involvement of local iwi, from governance through to design and delivery. This partnership is reflected in the mahi toi (Māori artworks) featured throughout the route, including two large sculptures marking either end of the highway.
The new highway runs through a working wind farm and passes through some of the region’s most scenic hill country. One standout feature is an eco-viaduct, built to preserve natural habitat. The project also included the building of a shared-use path, lookout points, and the relocation of over 3,000 fish to protect local biodiversity.
“This is more than just a road,” says Keryn and Wayne. “It reconnects communities, protects the environment, and celebrates the cultural heritage of the region. WSP is honoured to have helped bring it to life.”
For more information about the project, visit the NZTA website.
