NZTA Waka Kotahi and Ashburton District Council have confirmed a second Ashburton Bridge will be constructed.

Approximately 24,000 vehicles use the Ashburton Bridge each day. It provides a key connection for supply chains and emergency services across the South Island, and it connects Tinwald with Ashburton.

“This is great news for the people of Mid Canterbury and for the resiliency of State Highway 1. It is so important that we have a resilient roading network to connect our island and ensure the safe and reliable movement of people and goods up and down the island,” said Associate Transport Minister and Minister for the South Island James Meager.

“Building this bridge was one of our key commitments at the start of this term and locals will be pleased to see work is moving ahead at pace.”

Meager said a second bridge will reduce congestion, improve road safety, reduce delays, improve reliability in the case of potential closures, and help accommodate future growth.

“As next steps, NZTA will soon begin geotechnical investigations and a Registration of Interest will go out to market next week for technical and design support. This will be followed by procurement for detailed design and construction later in the year,” he said.

“NZTA will manage the design and build of the bridge and adjoining roads as one project, with ADC responsible for funding the section of new local road, as outlined in the partner agreement.

“I would like to thank Ashburton District Council and Mayor Neil Brown for the progress made on the second Ashburton Bridge so far, which has enabled the acceleration of this key project that will serve many people heading into the future.”

Construction is expected to start in mid-2026, pending approvals.

The NZ Trucking Association has welcomed the announcement, saying this infrastructure development will provide long-awaited improvements in connectivity, safety, and resilience for one of the South Island’s key freight corridors.

David Boyce, chief executive of the NZ Trucking Association, said it is a game-changer for the transport industry in Mid Canterbury.

“A second bridge will not only improve safety for all road users but also support the economic growth of the region by reducing congestion and delays. We commend Waka Kotahi and ADC for working together to progress this essential project,” he said.

“The NZ Trucking Association has long advocated for improved infrastructure to support a safer and more efficient road freight network across New Zealand.

“This announcement marks a significant step in the right direction, and we look forward to seeing further updates as the project progresses toward construction.”