$609 Million Allocated for North Island State Highway Recovery in Budget 2024

Transport Minister Simeon Brown confirmed that this funding aims to restore roads damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle and the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Floods.

The Coalition Government has unveiled the regional breakdown of the $609.25 million allocated for state highway recovery projects in the North Island as part of Budget 2024. Transport Minister Simeon Brown confirmed that this funding aims to restore roads damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle and the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Floods.

Minister Brown stated, "Regions in the North Island experienced severe damage, and this significant investment will help repair our state highways, ensuring that affected communities receive the support they need."

The funding distribution includes approximately $131.3 million for Northland, $21 million for the Coromandel, and $250 million for the East Coast. This allocation will support a range of recovery works such as structural repairs, pavement restoration, bridge reconstruction, slip site management, and rockfall protection.

Recovery efforts are projected to conclude by the following timelines:

Northland: End of 2024

Coromandel: Mid-2025

Hawke's Bay: Late 2025

Tairāwhiti: Mid-2026

In addition to the state highway funding, Budget 2024 includes an extra $330 million for local road recovery efforts. This investment comprises $50 million for Gisborne and Hastings District Councils, and $280 million to assist 13 other councils affected by the weather events. NZTA will work closely with these councils to expedite recovery projects.

"The Coalition Government is dedicated to restoring our state highway network to its full capacity and ensuring that communities have reliable access to essential services and opportunities," Minister Brown added.