Picton to Christchurch stretch of SH1 set to reopen for the first time since the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake

State Highway 1 between Picton and Christchurch is set to reopen fully for the first time since the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake. 

Transport Minister, Phil Twyford announced today that the road will re-open for a 24-hour access travel from the end of April. 

"Critical safety work on the coastal corridor is almost complete with the North Canterbury Transport Infrastructure Recovery crew making a massive push over the next four weeks to reach this milestone."

Mr Twyford says the re-opening will be welcomed by local communities, the freight industry and every day Kiwi drivers alike.

State Highway 1 will soon be available to everyone day and night – bringing further social and economic benefits back to the region, he says.