Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency will be closing SH73, the Arthur’s Pass route linking the West Coast and Canterbury early in December for around two weeks. The closures will affect daytimes on weekdays, 10 am to 6 pm, Monday 4 December to Friday 15 December.
The asphalt surfacing in the Otira Gorge is at the end of its life and requires replacement. This work must be completed this summer to ensure the continued safe operation of the road through the Otira Gorge. The Otira Gorge is an incredibly challenging environment, and not one where traffic and road works mix well. The lack of width means work at this scale can’t be done with any provision for passing vehicles so requires the road to be closed while the works are underway.
“Drivers will be able to use SH73 between Otira and Arthur’s Pass village up to 10 am each day and after 6 pm at night, Monday to Friday,” says Mark Pinner, Canterbury/West Coast System Manager, Waka Kotahi.
More information:
- 03/11/2023 – NZTA Media release