Maps of the route included in documents related to Southern Infrastructure’s $400 million project were released by the government as it considers whether it should be fast-tracked.
The maps show one line linking Queenstown Airport to the CBD and another linking to Frankton and Ladies Mile.
It is expected to move 3000 passengers an hour each way — the equivalent of a 50-seater bus every minute in each direction — in 10-seater cabins, taking pressure off Frankton Rd.
Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop is expected to make a decision on whether the project — which is backed by Queenstown tech entrepreneur Sir Rod Drury — should be considered under fast-track legislation in the coming weeks.
In a statement yesterday, Southern Infrastructure revealed progress to date included confirmation of a preferred route along State Highway 6, with a station located in the Queenstown Central precinct.
Chief executive Ross Copland said the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 was a "new piece of legislation" and there was a learning curve for everyone involved.
"We’re seeing strong engagement from stakeholders and welcome the feedback being shared.
"Some of the questions raised are important and will be addressed in detail as the project moves forward."
Meanwhile, the company had also lodged its "stage 2 infrastructure priorities programme submission", which reflected the project’s potential contribution to regional productivity, resilience, low-emissions transport and long-term community outcomes, he said.
"Nearly every infrastructure network in Queenstown is reaching capacity at the same time," Mr Copland said.
"A step change is urgently needed.
"Southern Infrastructure exists to help unlock transformational projects faster, with less impact on the community and at lower cost, while working collaboratively with public partners, iwi, landowners and stakeholders."
Southern Infrastructure was advancing the Queenstown Cable Car alongside the proposed Southern Lakes Secondary Hospital as part of a wider programme to address the region’s most pressing infrastructure challenges, Mr Copland said.
Sir Rod said the company had "rolled up our sleeves and done the work".
"This project has the potential to solve local transport challenges, enhance the visitor experience and demonstrate a new way of delivering essential infrastructure in New Zealand."
If referred under fast-track legislation, the cable car proposal will move into a "detailed consideration phase" by an expert consenting panel, which will include further technical assessment and input from councils, statutory authorities, iwi and affected landowners.
Refinements of the project, including the proposed route, will be incorporated and assessed as part of the substantive application.
The plan
• Two primary lines: Queenstown Airport to town centre and Frankton to Ladies Mile.
• Travel time of about 20 minutes from the airport to the town centre.
• Fully electric, zero-emissions operation.
• Enclosed cabins carrying up to 10 people.
• Departures every 12 seconds.
• Capacity of up to 3000 passengers per hour per direction.
