Invitation for comments

On 1 April 2026 the Woodend Bypass Project expert panel released Minute 2, recording their decision on which parties are to be invited to comment.

Minute 2 of the expert panel (PDF, 960KB)

Comments received 

Ministers' comments

Associate Minister of Transport (PDF, 72KB) 

Minister for Climate Change (PDF, 42KB)

Minister of Economic Growth (PDF, 354KB)

Minister for Infrastructure (PDF, 46KB)

Minister of Māori Crown relations and Māori Development (PDF, 380KB)

Minister for Regional Development (PDF, 544KB)

Minister for the South Island (PDF, 109KB)

Waimakariri District Council

Environment Canterbury Regional Council

Heritage New Zealand

Heritage s53 Comments (PDF, 399KB)

Appendix A recommended conditions (PDF, 245KB)

Department of Conservation

Nicky Alud

Allan Macdonald

Jan Vlk 

Other comments

Late comments 

The expert panel received comments outside of the timeframe set for comments to be received under section 54(1) of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024. The expert panel directed that this comment be accepted for consideration.

Emma Cunningham (PDF, 65KB)

Applicant's response to comments received

On 15 May 2026 the applicant provided a response to comments received including updated proposed conditions.