Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass is a new 6km route that avoids the existing steep, narrow and winding route over Mt Messenger on State Highway 3 in North Taranaki.
Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass aims to deliver a much improved road safety, resilience and journey experience. The bypass is a new 6km route from Uruti to Ahititi that avoids the existing steep, narrow and winding route over Mt Messenger on State Highway 3.
It includes two bridges of approximately 125m and 30m length, and a 235m tunnel. The route will be lower and less steep than the existing road.
A substantial environmental restoration programme is also a key feature of the project.
Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger project booklet – Autumn 2024 [PDF, 4.3 MB]
| Estimated project cost | Funding source | Stage |
|---|---|---|
|
$280 million |
Government’s Accelerated Regional Roading Programme and the National Land Transport Programme |
Construction |
The main objectives of the bypass are to:
The Mt Messenger Alliance brings together Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, Downer, HEB Construction, Tonkin & Taylor and WSP.
Collectively we bring national and international experience in infrastructure development.
Our team is made up of transport designers, engineers with geometric, geotechnical, structural and construction expertise, RMA planners and environmental specialists including ecologists, landscape architects and stakeholder and communication professionals.
CloseOur relationship with Ngāti Tama began in 2016 when we approached them as manawhenua of the rohe surrounding the Mt Messenger section of SH3, to become involved in the project. Ngāti Tama representatives were involved in a two-step assessment process to select preferred options for improving the road.
Our relationship has strengthened over time.
We continue to work closely with Te Rūnanga. In 2020, Ngāti Tama members voted in favour of agreements with Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, allowing land needed for the bypass to be exchanged.
More about our partnership with Ngāti Tama
Close
