A first-of-its-kind project in New Zealand has earned the Council national recognition for innovation, winning one
of the country’s top transport awards.

The Council and Treadlite won the Fruehauf Outstanding Contribution to Innovation Award at the
Road Freight Industry Awards for its project to build the country’s first road made of rubber.

The trial transformed nearly 1,800 end-of-life tyres into the road surface for Glentunnel Domain Road. It was
laid in March, diverting waste from landfill and saving an estimated 20–30 tonnes of carbon emissions.

The trial includes three different rubberised surfaces to test how they work in Selwyn’s climate. Internationally,
rubber roads have proven to last longer, be quieter, and Selwyn rubber road wins top national innovation award
better suited to extreme weather conditions, while also reducing reliance on imported bitumen, saving money
on long-term maintenance.

Council Executive Director Infrastructure and Property Tim Mason said the award reflects both the scale of the
challenge and the value of innovative thinking.

“We’re really proud of the team and all the partners who’ve made this work. It’s about building smarter. If
we can deliver roads that last longer and cost less to maintain, that’s a direct benefit for our ratepayers. This is
a practical solution that shows how councils and industry can work together to deliver better outcomes."

Decorative photo

Last modified: 08 Jul 2026 2:10pm