Construction
Artist's impression of the future pedestrian crossing between Cambridge and Kent Terraces, to be built from April 2025
Construction on Courtenay corner
Work has started on the intersection of Kent and Cambridge Terraces. Construction is expected to take around eight months, with most work being done during the day. However, some work will be done at night to minimise disruption to transport routes and businesses.
Dayshift work will be done between 7am and 5pm, Mondays to Saturdays, with traffic management in place 9am and 4pm on those days.
Nightshift work will be done between 8pm and 6am Sundays to Thursdays, when necessary.
Read the construction advance notification letter (PDF 253KB) I Text version (Word 406KB)
What to expect
The cycleway has been temporarily moved so cyclists can bike around construction. Ww've installed asphalt ramps and signs near the statue of Queen Victoria to allow switching from Cambridge Terrace to Kent Terrace and vice versa.
A new kerb will be installed on the eastern side of what will become the new, improved centre island. While this mahi is underway, the right-hand turn bay from Cambridge Terrace into Majoribanks Street will be closed for around four months. A sign-posted detour via Wakefield Street, Tory Street and Cable Street through to Kent Terrace will be in place, but drivers can choose to take an earlier turn to avoid taking the detour will be in place.
You will be able to turn left into Majoribanks Street from Kent Terrace and access Mount Victoria via all other normal access points such as Elizabeth Street.
Work has begun on the island in the middle of the intersection of Courtenay Place and Kent/Cambridge Terraces, to create improved bike lanes and safer pedestrian crossings.
During construction Kent Terrace and the temporary cycleway will remain open. The existing pedestrian crossing will be open, but we may sometimes need to direct people to the nearest alternative crossing.
Construction will then start on the kerb and footpath outside the Embassy Theatre.
Once the new cycleway through the centre island is completed, the temporary cycleway will be removed and signage will be installed to direct cyclists down the new cycleway.
Work on underground utilities will take place on Kent and Cambridge Terraces. The centre island work will be finished and construction completed.
Artist's impression of the new pedestrian island between Kent and Cambridge Terrace
Living with change
Modernising Courtenay Place will make it a more attractive, vibrant and welcoming place to live, work and play. It will also make it easier and safer to get around on foot, by bus, bike or whatever way turns your wheels.
For anyone who calls Courtenay Place home, the months and years ahead will mean new ways of moving through and around the area. We'll let you know when bus stops are being relocated, when walking access is different due to work is taking place and when crossings will change location - for now the Kent/Cambridge crossing will stay the same. No matter what's underway, there'll always be well sign-posted, safe ways to get around.
The work programme has been designed to minimise disruption to traffic flow, dust and noise using noise-reducing padding on fencing, for example. During the day, work will take place between 9am and 4pm Monday to Saturday, while overnight work will be done between 8pm and 6am Sunday to Thursday.
As the project progresses, we'll provide ongoing opportunities for residents to keep informed. Signage, letters, face-to-face hui, community events and social media posts are just some of the ways we'll keep in touch. You can also sign up to our e-newsletter if you want to hear from us on a regular basis.
If you'd like to connect with your local residents' associations, you can contact Inner City Wellington or Mount Victoria Residents Association.
Business support available
We know construction can be disruptive so during this time we’re offering all impacted businesses:
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Access to our construction leads so any issues can be quickly resolved.
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Signage to ensure your clients and customers can still find you while work is underway.
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Suitable safety fencing for your business. For instance, noise-reduction padding, transparent sidings and branded sidings.
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Tailored mentoring and training through WellingtonNZ and the Regional Business Partners Network. Businesses can request training based on specific needs or take part in workshops about financial literacy, leadership, marketing and digital engagement.
Let's keep in touch
The above timeframes are subject to final approval and may change. We will keep you up-to-date with any changes.
If you have any queries about this project, please contact the Major Projects Team at Courtenay@wcc.ovt.nz.
Safety and accessibility
Learn about how we're improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and people spending time on Courtenay Place.
Transport changes
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.
Water renewals
Learn about how we're collaborating with Wellington Water to renew and reinforce the pipes underground during Courtenay Place construction.
Business impacts
Learn about what these changes will mean for businesses in the area.
Mana whenua engagement
Learn about how we've engaged with mana whenua to develop a cultural narrative and designs.
What to expect during construction
Learn how construction is expected to roll out, and how you can still access businesses in the area.
Supporting documents
Read all the detailed plans, engagement summaries, research and more.