It was hoped the new $650 million link would be opened in late 2024.
The delay has been blamed on COVID-19 complications and problems in the ground where the foundations for two 300m bridges at the Palmerston North end are to be constructed.
The road is designed to replace the old Manawatu Gorge road which has been closed since 2017 due to rock falls, leaving motorists with the options of the Saddle Road or Pahiatua Track – both of which were slow and winding.
The new road is being built over the Ruahine Ranges which is hoped to provide a safe and resilient route between Ashhurst and Woodville. The highway will be 11.5km with two lanes each way, and a drive time of about 13 minutes for general motorists and 18 minutes for freight
