Marainanga Gorge construction works

Published 20 Apr 2023

A blessing ceremony at the Marainanga Gorge marked the beginning of construction works for temporary access.
The gorge was severely impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle and has been closed off since, a real inconvenience to coastal residents and farmers who heavily rely on it for transportation and access. The Tararua District Council acknowledges how important this access route through the Marainanga Gorge is, and is committed to using local skills, knowledge, and contractors for the construction of the temporary access route.

The blessing ceremony was attended by iwi members, Mayor Tracey, Councillors, and Council roading team members.

Construction works are scheduled to start at the end of this week and will involve lowering a portion of the road to create temporary access for residents and stock trucks. The anticipated timeline for the works is approximately five weeks, weather permitting.

The roading teams are working hard to get the repair work underway and the Recovery Team are focusing on increasing communications so that the communities have a good understanding about planned work.

To find out more about Cyclone Gabrielle Recovery in the Tararua District please go to:

Cyclone Gabrielle Recovery | Tararua District Council (tararuadc.govt.nz)

Marainanga Gorge blessing