Roads re-open ahead of long weekend

Queen Charlotte Drive from Picton to Havelock reopened to the public just in time for Labour weekend and ahead of the first cruise ship visit of the season.

Parts of Port Underwood Road from Picton to Oyster Bay and Rarangi to Whites Bay are also open.

Marlborough Roads Manager Steve Murrin says the reopening of these key routes means over 370km of road has been restored to public access after being severely damaged by the August 2022 storm event.

“While these roads have reopened, we ask drivers to continue to travel with caution,” Mr Murrin said.

“We expect roads throughout the district will continue to be busy over Marlborough Anniversary weekend. Drivers should be aware that traffic management including stop/go restrictions remain on roads that have reopened and delays are to be expected.”

Newly elected Mayor Nadine Taylor said the reopening of these roads, especially in advance of the cruise ship and tourist season will be welcome news for many. “This is a significant milestone in the recovery effort and our thanks go to the roading crews who have put in a huge effort to reopen these roads as quickly as possible,” she said.

Locals and visitors are reminded that there are still a number of roads that are closed, or have restricted access in place following the August weather event. Travellers are urged to check the Marlborough CDEM map for a road's status before their journey at: www.marlborough.govt.nz/civil-defence-emergencymanagement/cdem-official-public-information-map

Clearance at Whenuanui Bay, one of the biggest overslips on Queen Charlotte Drive