Articles tagged with Napier

New Specialist School for Complex Needs Students to Open in Gisborne by 2028

2 weeks ago | 175 views

A new specialist school for students with complex needs will open in Gisborne by Term 1, 2028, addressing a critical gap in local support for up to 54 students in the Tairāwhiti region. This school is one of three new specialist schools announced by the Education Minister, marking the first such developments in New Zealand in nearly 50 years, backed by nearly $295 million in government investment. The initiative responds to strong community demand, aiming to provide fit-for-purpose classrooms and additional satellite teaching spaces to better support students with high and complex needs.

Tags: Erica Stanford Gisborne Tairāwhiti Te Wharau School Ilminster Intermediate School Napier Dury Palmerston North New Zealand Education Minister

Cyclone Gabrielle Recovery Complete: SH2 Devil’s Elbow Road Repairs Finished

4 months ago | 774 views

The repair work at Devil’s Elbow on State Highway 2, a critical section between Napier and Wairoa, has been completed, marking the end of Cyclone Gabrielle recovery efforts in the area. The project involved extensive repairs including road rebuilding, culvert replacements, and a new retaining wall to improve resilience against future storm damage. Transport Minister Chris Bishop highlighted the improved safety and reliability of the route, acknowledging the efforts of local contractors and the support from the community throughout the recovery process.

Tags: Cyclone Gabrielle Devil’s Elbow State Highway 2 Chris Bishop Transport Rebuild East Coast Hawke’s Bay Napier Wairoa SH38 Rail Bridge 217

New Zealand Invests $3M to Upgrade Rangitata Ship for Disaster Relief

6 months ago | 962 views

New Zealand is investing $3 million to upgrade the coastal bulk ship Rangitata, enhancing its capacity to carry diverse cargo and access smaller ports during emergencies. The upgrade includes a ship-powered material handler, enabling loading and unloading without relying on port infrastructure, crucial when land routes and facilities are compromised. This investment aims to strengthen disaster resilience by ensuring vital supplies can reach isolated communities following natural disasters.

Tags: James Meager Rangitata Cyclone Gabrielle Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund Gisborne Napier New Zealand natural disasters coastal bulk ship material handler

Funding Approved for SH50 Ngaruroro River Bridge Strengthening in Hawke’s Bay

8 months ago | 1231 views

Funding has been approved for strengthening the SH50 Ngaruroro River Bridge in Hawke’s Bay, addressing current speed and weight restrictions that have impacted freight operators since October 2022. The project, costing between $10–$20 million, is set to begin construction in 2026 and will upgrade the bridge to support High Productivity Motor Vehicles and 50MAX configurations, enhancing transport efficiency and regional economic growth. Temporary restrictions will remain until completion, with ongoing stakeholder engagement and community support emphasized by government officials.

Tags: Chris Bishop Katie Nimon Catherine Wedd NZ Transport Agency SH50 Ngaruroro River Bridge Hawke’s Bay NZTA Transport Minister Napier MP freight sector

State Highway 2 Hawke’s Bay Expressway Construction Begins: Enhancing Region's Connectivity for Future Growth

9 months ago | 1215 views

Construction has commenced on the State Highway 2 Hawke’s Bay Expressway, a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing resilience and productivity in the region and creating job opportunities. The project includes various upgrades such as four-laning sections, new overpasses, and a bridge, with completion expected by December 2029. The Expressway serves as a vital link connecting Napier and Hastings, facilitating the movement of people and freight, and is crucial for accommodating the region's anticipated growth.

Tags: Construction State Highway 2 Hawke’s Bay Expressway Transport Minister Chris Bishop Roads of National Significance Waikare Gorge Hawke’s Bay region Napier Port Meeanee Road Kennedy Road

NZTA Approves $600M Investment for Hawke’s Bay Expressway Upgrade

12 months ago | 1397 views

Transport Minister Chris Bishop has welcomed the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) Board’s endorsement of the investment case for the Hawke’s Bay Expressway, with construction starting in November on this crucial Road of National Significance (RoNS). The Board has approved over $600m to four-lane the most congested part of the Expressway, including a new grade separated interchange. The investment case shows significant improvements in travel times, safety, and resilience, with construction expected to start in November 2025 and be completed by early 2028.

Tags: Chris Bishop NZ Transport Agency Hawke’s Bay Expressway RoNS Links Road Pākōwhai Road Taradale Road Napier Hastings Katie Nimon