20 November 2025: The Golden Mile project has been paused by the Council, so a review of costs and risks can be completed.
At a council meeting on 20 November councillors decided to do an independent review, which will take between three to six months to complete and cost around $200,000-400,000. The review will consider whether the existing project remains viable and aligned with its original objectives in the context of current economic conditions, in light of significant cost and risks escalation. It will include economic analysis on both the short and long-term impacts of the project across the full route from Lambton Quay to Courtenay Place.
Further information about the review process will be shared once details are confirmed. NZTA will also be involved in the review, as they are providing 51% of funding for the transport aspects of the project.
Mayor Andrew Little said the review will provide up-to-date information so that decisions on the future of the project are based on the most current costs and the real and likely cost to the Council.
“The project cannot be delivered within the existing budget and the risk for ratepayers to be stuck with expensive, inflexible contracts is simply too great.”
Currently there is no risk of penalties to existing contracts because no contract has been signed. Now the scope of the review has been confirmed and the project paused, the contract for Work Package 2 (WP2) will not be signed in November as planned. This also means construction along Courtenay Place won’t start in early 2026 as expected.
Many Wellingtonians want the Golden Mile upgraded but it’s prudent to pause so we’re sure we’re delivering a project where the benefits justify the cost. To find out more, check out the agenda paper (pages 103-126), the minutes from the meeting, or watch the livestream video.
Animated design flythrough showcasing the revitalisation of Courtenay Place. The video highlights plans for improved transport connections and inviting public spaces for shopping, working, and socialising.
The Golden Mile, Wellington’s main retail and commercial strip, runs from the Parliament end of Lambton Quay, along Willis and Manners Streets, to the entertainment hub of Courtenay Place. The goal of the Golden Mile project is to improve traffic flow and bus reliability, create wider footpaths and dedicated bike lanes, add more public seating and outdoor dining areas, include cultural design elements developed in partnership with mana whenua, and increase native planting. Revitalising the central city will mean disruption in the short-term, but in the long-term, residents, businesses and tourists will benefit from better infrastructure, increased numbers of visitors, and world-class amenities.
Wellington’s unique geography, compact city centre, and small number of road networks means we face unique transport challenges. We’ve designed a solution which supports new and improved ways of getting around, thriving hospitality and retail areas, and more people-centred public spaces.
Many of Wellington’s infrastructure assets such as water pipes, roads and footpaths are in need of repair and replacement. We’re working closely with our utilities operators to use the opportunity to improve these assets as we do construction work on the Golden Mile, which will mean less disruption and less cost for ratepayers in the long run.
The upgrade of Courtenay Place will create a vibrant space for all to enjoy. The design offers a strong cultural narrative of the area, informed by mana whenua who have been involved throughout the design process. The stories of the area will be told through paving designs and other elements.
Learn more about this process
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or if you have any questions, email courtenay@wcc.govt.nz.
23 October: Wheel-y good news!
The new dedicated two-way bike lane on Kent/Cambridge Terraces is open, and the righthand turn into Majoribanks Street has reopened, so no need to turn early or follow the old detour. Drivers, please keep an eye out for cyclists as they use the new route to and through the intersection.
For anyone on foot, cyclists will be heading in both directions so look both ways, stick to pedestrian areas and stay safe. The new centre island crossing is in place but isn't operational yet, so continue using the existing crossings until further notice. Enjoy the kōwhai, native birdsong and new landscaping as you pass by – it’s looking lovely!
19 September: This month's e-news - Construction update on Courtenay Place
26 August: Check out this month's e-news
14 August: Plans for next phase of Golden Mile shared
6 June: Check out progress on the Courtenay Place intersection
16 May: Work underway, changes to right-hand turn into Majoribanks Street
2 May 2025: Groundbreaking work set to start on Golden Mile
Learn about how we're improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and people spending time on Courtenay Place.
Explore what the changes mean for everyone moving in and around Courtenay Place - from pedestrians and cyclists, through to public transport, private vehicles, delivery drivers and authorised vehicles.
Learn about how we're collaborating with Wellington Water to renew and reinforce the pipes underground during Courtenay Place construction.
Learn about what these changes will mean for businesses in the area.
Learn about how we've engaged with mana whenua to develop a cultural narrative and designs.
Learn how construction is expected to roll out, and how you can still access businesses in the area.
Read all the detailed plans, engagement summaries, research and more.