Durie Hill Elevator update

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In May, proactive maintenance work by the council, WSP and elevator specialists identified issues with mechanical safety systems at the 107-year-old Durie Hill Elevator.

As the safety of residents, visitors and staff is our first priority, the elevator has remained closed while specialist investigations have been carried out. This work coincided with the elevator’s annual maintenance programme, which has now been completed.

Those investigations have now identified a potential solution that would allow the elevator to return to service.

The proposed solution involves installing a new rope brake system to provide an additional layer of safety in the event of machinery failure. Detailed design work is now underway, along with further investigation to confirm the existing structure can accommodate the new system.

Timeframe

While identifying a solution to the safety issue is a positive step forward, there are still several things to confirm before a reopening date can be set.

The timeframe will depend on the outcome of the structural investigation and the completion of the design and installation work.

At this stage, we expect it will be at least several weeks before the elevator can reopen. We will provide a clearer timeframe as soon as we are able to.

The Durie Hill Elevator will remain closed while this work continues.

Replacement shuttle

We recognise this closure is frustrating, particularly for people who rely on the elevator for accessibility and regular access to Durie Hill. We appreciate the community's patience. While the elevator’s closed, alternative transport will continue to be provided.

A replacement shuttle continues to operate seven days a week between the Tunnel Entrance (42 Anzac Parade) and the Elevator Tower Landing (2 Blyth Street).

The shuttle runs from 7.30am to 6pm on weekdays and 9.30am to 5pm on weekends and can accommodate bicycles.

Timetables are available at both stops and on the Durie Hill Elevator website. The shuttle has been timed to connect with the 201 Whanganui East-Castlecliff bus service where practical.

Information for visitors

The Durie Hill Tunnel remains open every day for visitors and locals to enjoy, including its famous tunnel lights.

A unique form of public transport, the Durie Hill Elevator opened on August 2, 1919. Set into the hill, the 213 metre tunnel and 66 metre public transport elevator enabled a short journey by foot or bicycle between Whanganui and Durie Hill.

In the past year it recorded approximately:

  • 64,000 passenger boardings
  • 26,000 elevator trips
  • More than 4,200 bicycle trips
  • Over 800 dog trips
  • Around 370 pram trips
  • More than 80 wheelchair trips

Further updates 

We will provide further updates as the work progresses, including:

  • the outcome of the structural investigation
  • progress on the design and installation work
  • any confirmed timeframes
  • when the elevator is expected to reopen

The latest information will be available through:

  • The Durie Hill Elevator website
  • Durie Hill Elevator Facebook and Instagram pages
  • Whanganui District Council communications, including this page

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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