In a recent statement, Tararua District Mayor Tracey Collis, has strongly opposed the proposed tolls on the new Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū-Tararua Highway, which would impose considerable financial burdens on local residents. The announcement of tolls, potentially reaching $4.30 for light vehicles and $8.60 for heavy vehicles, has taken many residents by surprise and has been met with significant backlash from the community. 

The mayor stressed that the highway is essentially a replacement route for the damaged State Highway 3, not a new road. Severe slips in 2017 led to the decision to replace SH3, and as per the mayor, the existing toll proposal fails to take into account the historical context and economic challenges faced by the community. 

"This is not just about a new road; this is about restoring vital infrastructure that our district has lost," Collis stated, highlighting the need for safe and efficient travel for residents of Tararua and Manawatū. The initial business case for the highway did not factor in tolling as a solution, and the mayor warned that imposing tolls could undermine its intended purpose. “If tolls deter significant traffic from using this highway, then we risk turning back progress on safety and efficiency that this new route was meant to provide.” 

The social and economic ramifications of the proposed tolls are particularly concerning for residents grappling with high levels of socioeconomic deprivation. "Many of our residents are already struggling. The cost of $8.60 for a round trip just to visit family or commute to work is simply unacceptable for those already living on tight budgets,” the mayor added. The concern extends to businesses in the region, as the costs associated with tolls for heavy vehicles would likely ripple through to consumers, exacerbating inequities in accessibility within the community.

In addition to economic concerns, the mayor underscored the implications for access to essential services. “The Te Ahu a Turanga Highway serves as a primary access route to clinical and health services; adding a toll could make it harder for residents to access the care they need, which is a serious issue for our community's wellbeing,” said the mayor.

Residents have also raised safety concerns regarding the alternative routes, Saddle Road and Pahiatua Track, which are ill-equipped for high-volume highway traffic and pose significant risks. “Using these routes as alternatives only places further strain on infrastructure that was never meant to accommodate such heavy loads, leading to increased maintenance costs and ongoing safety issues,” the mayor warned.

Additionally, Collis pointed to the ongoing recovery efforts from Cyclone Gabrielle, emphasising that introducing tolls could hinder economic recovery by further burdening a community already facing challenges. “This proposal is not just impractical; it is harmful to areas that are still nursing the wounds of past disasters.”

Mayor Collis urged community members to take action and voice their opinions regarding the tolling proposal to Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency. Feedback from residents is vital as it could influence the final recommendations made to the Minister of Transport. “This is our opportunity to collectively make a difference. Please share your views before the consultation deadline at 5 pm on Monday, October 7,” the mayor implored.

As discussions continue, the future of Tararua’s transport infrastructure weighs heavily on the voices of its residents, who are faced with the potential tolling of a road that symbolises hope for their community. The mayor concluded by asserting, “We can’t allow tolls to undermine the growth and safety we desperately need.”