What this means if you're visiting
💡 Avoid SH6 near Kawarau Bridge today; use Gorge Road to Coronet Peak or delay ski plans until the road reopens.
A serious crash on the Kawarau Bridge this morning has shut down SH6, the critical artery linking Queenstown to Arrowtown, Wanaka, and both major ski fields. Five people were injured in the three-vehicle collision, and emergency services are on scene. The highway is blocked in both directions, with no estimated reopening time yet. NZ Transport Agency warns drivers to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
For skiers heading to Coronet Peak or The Remarkables, this closure means significant delays. The usual 25-minute drive from Queenstown to Coronet Peak could double or triple, and access to The Remarkables via SH6 is completely cut off for now. If you're staying in Arrowtown or further east, expect to be diverted via the Crown Range Road — but check conditions first, as snow is possible above 1500m.
**Q: Is SH6 open to the Remarkables today?** **A:** No, SH6 is closed at Kawarau Bridge due to a serious crash. Access to The Remarkables from Queenstown is currently blocked. Check NZTA's Journey Planner for updates before leaving, and consider delaying your trip until the road reopens.
Local police have urged patience and said diversions are in place, but with winter tourist traffic already heavy, congestion is expected throughout the day. The crash scene is being investigated, and tow trucks are working to clear the vehicles. Earlier this week, NZTA completed closure projects for Queenstown Lakes road improvements, but this is an unplanned disruption.
**Q: What's the best detour to get to Coronet Peak from Queenstown?** **A:** From Queenstown, take Gorge Road towards Arthurs Point, then follow Malaghans Road to Coronet Peak Road. This avoids SH6 entirely. Allow an extra 20-30 minutes. For The Remarkables, you'll need to wait for SH6 to reopen — no viable detour exists from the Queenstown side.
Check NZTA's live updates and Queenstown Lakes District Council's social media for the latest. With a wintry blast expected, conditions could worsen, so pack chains and warm layers if you do head out.
Source: NZ HeraldWith ski season in full swing, this road closure directly impacts access to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables on a clear winter Sunday.
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