Kaikoura-Picton coast road
 

We are planning a NZ trip for Nov 2017. The coast passenger train between Kaikoura-Picton will not reopen until 2018. Does anyone have information on when the coast road and bus transportation might reopen?
TIA

I don't think anyone on this forum can answer your question with definitiveness. This was the latest update I could find (perhaps there's something newer). I suggest you read it.
https://www.nzta.govt.nz/assets/proj...e-20170203.pdf
Here's another link to the same press release, in the above link doesn't work:
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK170...ake-update.htm

According to an article dated Feb. 24, 2017, they hope to have the SH1 Picton to Kaikoura open before Christmas.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/8932...from-the-quake

The coast road, SH1 from Christchurch to Kaikoura is open. If you plan to take the Intercity bus, direct buses to Kaikoura presently only leave from Christchurch. Intercity offer a bus to from Picton to CC, then a bus from CC to Kaikoura. https://www.intercity.co.nz

Where else do you plan to visit on your trip? That is, what will the rest of your route be? If you plan to visit CC, or fly from Christchurch, why not visit Kaikoura from there?

You'll have to monitor the situation over the next 8.5 months, and then after you arrive.

If you decide to drive, this is a link to info about the alternative route to Kaikoura:
https://www.nzta.govt.nz/assets/traf...hway-route.pdf

Diamantina has given a good answer. There was great damage to the road and railway line from the earthquake. Enormous slips fell across the road and into the sea.
They are working on clearing it all but it is a huge job. Just have to see nearer the time.

Diamantina:
Many thanks for very useful info - I had not found the govt press release. CC is on the itinerary - we will likely follow your suggestion and plan to visit Kaikoura from there. If progress is faster than anticipated, we can change later.
Thanks again.
JCBD

Another update indicating it won't be open until around Christmas. with lots of hard work involved:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/nz-e...ork-to-be-done

https://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/...kaikoura-quake

This was posted on Facebook a few days ago by Mr. Tony Eldon at Kaikoura Mini Backpackers...

Work has started on the highway to Blenheim, with an almost constant stream of helicopters, ferrying stuff up the coast from Hapuku. Meanwhile the highway south remains fragile, and was closed for two days following a mere 20 mm of rain last week. The inland road is a mess of roadworks, and the journey from Christchurch takes about 4.5 hours, I'm told. We had at least three shakes strong enough to be felt during last few days.. But really no one heeds them any more, and visitors are welcome, and needed.