Tag #Cook Strait

Why is the construction of a Cook Strait tunnel considered impractical despite the recurring disruptions to ferry services?

The disruptions highlight the vulnerability of New Zealand's reliance on ferries for inter-island transport, particularly given the Cook Strait's unpredictable weather. The high cost (estimated at $28 billion) and logistical challenges associated with building a tunnel, coupled with New Zealand's relatively small population (5 million), make alternative solutions impractical at present. The country's unique geographical challenges, including volatile ground conditions and tectonic activity, add further complexity.