Today, young men studying Level One Geography had the opportunity to learn more about the process of replacing the Gorge Road with Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū Tararua Highway. This case study is part of their analysis of a Contemporary Geographic Issue. Farmer Stu Bolton, whose land the new highway will be built across, spoke about the decision making and consultation process, while staff from the New Zealand Transport Agency explained the work that is being done in preparation for the project to be finalized and the first earthworks to begin. During their discussions the wide range of Geography related careers who will be involved became apparent. In Woodville, staff from the Tararua District Council outlined the challenges faced by businesses there and the initiatives that have been put in place to respond to these. The significant employment opportunities that will come from the construction of the new highway and the opportunities for the Tararua and Manawatū regions were also highlighted.
