Mayor Fran Wilde has welcomed news of continued funding for Cape Palliser Road from the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) for three more years.
“This is a significant decision given that the fragility of the road,” said Mayor Wilde.
The announcement made in early September provides much-needed certainty for the residents, farmers, fishers, iwi, businesses and visitors who depend on this vital coastal route. It also removes a significant financial burden that would otherwise be borne by South Wairarapa District Council and ratepayers.
Mayor Wilde says the decision is a major win for the community and reflects the road’s importance as a key transport link that connects people, supports local industries and provides access to some of the country’s most iconic visitor destinations. The road also holds significant cultural value for iwi.
“Securing this funding acknowledges the important role Cape Palliser Road plays, not only for South Wairarapa communities but also for New Zealand as a whole,” she says.
The Council had anticipated the need for an approximately 4% rates increase from 1 July 2027 in its 2025-34 Long-Term Plan, to help meet the additional costs of maintaining the road. NZTA will provide a 95% Financial Assistance Rate for the next three years. Emergency repair work already underway following storm damage will continue to be fully funded, with NZTA covering 100% of costs.
