Strategic plan sets direction for Queenstown transport
New Zealand’s transport agency has released a 30-year plan to guide investment in Queenstown’s transport network, addressing rapid growth and physical constraints through staged upgrades and innovative solutions.
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) today released the Queenstown Strategic Network Plan, a 30-year blueprint aimed at directing transport investment to meet growing demand in Queenstown. Transport Minister Chris Bishop highlighted the region’s rapid expansion, with peak-day population expected to rise from 83,000 in 2025 to 143,000 by 2055, placing significant pressure on existing infrastructure. The plan acknowledges physical limitations imposed by Queenstown’s natural landscape, necessitating a smarter, more integrated approach beyond simply expanding road capacity.
Early priorities outlined in the plan include upgrades to the Frankton Flats intersection, bus priority improvements, Ladies Mile and Southern Corridor enhancements, town centre bus hub upgrades, and enhanced walking and cycling connections. The replacement of Edith Cavell Bridge at Arthurs Point is identified as critical for improving local road network resilience. The plan also proposes long-term measures such as high-capacity public transport options like gondolas or cable cars, with several private sector proposals under consideration.
An additional crossing over the Kawarau River is proposed to address increasing travel demand between Frankton and developments south of the river. The plan aligns with the Government’s focus on a resilient and reliable transport network that supports economic growth and productivity, while also adhering to the National Infrastructure Plan’s emphasis on better utilising existing infrastructure and prioritising value-for-money projects.
Work is already underway on several projects to alleviate current transport pressures, including the Frankton State Highway 6/6A intersection upgrade and the new Bus Hub, which will improve traffic flow and increase capacity. Other initiatives include transforming the Howards Drive intersection into a signalised intersection, adding a fourth leg to support housing, and constructing the Jims Way/Pūāhuru walking and cycling bridge across State Highway 6.