Selwyn District Council, in partnership with Treadlite New Zealand, is set to launch the country’s first trial of a rubber road surface in Glentunnel, Canterbury
This innovative project aims to explore sustainable uses for end-of-life and recycled tyres within the roading sector.
The trial, scheduled for early next year, will utilize recycled rubber granules supplied by Treadlite NZ, the nation’s sole provider of this material for pavement applications. The council is collaborating with its roading contractor, believed to be HEB, to deliver this pioneering initiative.
“We are excited to see recycled rubber improving the performance of New Zealand roads in the near future,” said Brad Pierce, Executive Director of Treadlite NZ.
This trial is part of Selwyn District Council’s broader commitment to innovation in infrastructure. Other recent initiatives include the use of plastic grids in road rehabilitation to reduce excavation needs, and the introduction of the StormBrixx underground stormwater management system to address surface flooding. The council is also exploring a new model, where contractors lease road lanes, incentivising efficient project completion.
Despite rapid growth and increased traffic, Selwyn’s roads are among the smoothest in New Zealand, with maintenance costs per kilometre averaging 15 per cent less than other networks. However, the council acknowledges ongoing challenges as road surfaces age and traffic volumes rise
