A steady stream of visitors has returned to Flora carpark since Graham Valley Road reopened a fortnight ago, restoring access to Tu Ao Wharepapa/Mount Arthur and parts of Kahurangi National Park weeks ahead of schedule.
The road, which leads to Kahurangi National Park, was badly damaged during the mid-year storms of 2025, with six slips coming down. One slip sent a section of the road eight metres into the river below.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) and Tasman District Council, which co-manage the road, carried out detailed planning before repairs began, because of the challenging site conditions. This included geotechnical assessments, 3D engineering designs and specialist civil engineering expertise for river works.
Repair work began in May and was originally expected to continue until spring.
DOC acting Motueka operations manager Helen Otley says several walking tracks were also maintained while visitor access was restricted.
“They are in great condition for people to get out and enjoy.”
Members of the conservation group Friends of Flora are among those who are relieved the road has reopened, so they can have renewed access to their predator traplines. Group member Sandy Toy says the last year presented a huge challenge. "Managing to keep all the trapping and biodiversity monitoring going was a big volunteer team effort," she says. "We're all looking forward to easier access."
Helen cautions that access is still via a steep and narrow alpine road and, as always, is suitable only for four-wheel-drive vehicles during winter. Chains may be needed when snow and ice are present.
“We’re thrilled to have this well-used gateway to alpine experiences in Kahurangi National Park reopening to the public again.”
There are currently no concrete traction strips on the newly-repaired section of road, but DOC and Tasman District Council intend to reinstate them. Regular maintenance work will also be carried out in the near future.
Helen says the repair work has improved the road’s resilience to future weather events through strengthened river engineering.
“It’s really been a team effort to get the road reopened. DOC worked closely with Tasman District Council to plan the repairs, and contractors Ferguson Earthmoving have done a superb job at site. Thanks also to the NZ Transport Agency for providing the bulk of the funding for this storm recovery work.”
Flora carpark provides access to popular tramps including the Tableland Circuit, Mt Arthur Summit Route, Flora Circuit and Ellis Basin Route.
