The Transport Agency has delayed its final decision on a replacement for the landslide-prone Manawatu Gorge road.
Photo: NZTA
The agency had hoped to have a final version ready by the end of this year, but now says more work is needed to get a final version.
It now expected to have done its analysis by March next year.
"We've made good progress on assessing the four short listed options, but further discussions need to be had before we can make a decision with confidence," said NZTA regional transport system manager Ross I'Anson.
"We are currently working closely with local councils and other stakeholders to make the right long-term decision."
The existing highway has been shut since April, after it was deemed unsafe following a number of slips.
Slips had closed the road several times before and it was decided not to keep on repairing it.
The gorge carries State Highway Three, which is a vital link for more than 200,000 people who live in Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa.
The choice would narrow down four options to one.
The first is a new road across the Ruahine Range, north of the Saddle Road, costing between $350m and $400m, and taking five to six years to complete.
The second is an upgrade of the Saddle Road, which would bring it up to state highway standard.
This would cost between $300m-$400 million, and would also take five to six years.
The third alternative is a new road across the Ruahine Range, south of the Saddle Road, at a cost of $350m-$450m, which would take five to six years to finish.
The fourth and final option is a new route south of the Manawatu Gorge, costing between $450m- $550m, that would take six to seven years to complete.
Despite the delay, the Transport Agency said it was committed to achieving a solution as early as possible.