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A group of Queenstown business leaders has formed a consortium to investigate an elevated electric transport network aimed at easing congestion across the resort town.
The group, which includes representatives from NZSki, Remarkables Park, Skyline Enterprises, Queenstown Airport Corporation, Technology Queenstown and Queenstown Resort College, has launched a feasibility study and consenting pathway for the proposed Whoosh transport system.
The announcement was made during the opening day of Electrify Queenstown 2026.
The consortium is investigating whether a staged network of autonomous electric vehicles operating on cables and rails above existing roads could improve transport options for both residents and visitors.
The group has also begun discussions with Southern Infrastructure, which is promoting the proposed Queenstown cable car project, to explore how the systems could potentially work together.
Group spokesman Matthew Day says congestion is increasingly affecting both residents and the visitor experience.
“Traffic congestion in Queenstown is affecting daily commutes, business productivity and the visitor experience,” Matthew says.
“It has real costs for locals and the town’s reputation – and there is an urgent need to explore new approaches alongside traditional public transport options.”
Proposed network
The initial focus of the proposed network would be local journeys along Frankton Road, connecting downtown Queenstown with the airport, Remarkables Park and the proposed transport hub for The Remarkables Ski Area south of the Kawarau River.
The consortium says the modular system could later be expanded to connect residential suburbs, schools, supermarkets and other destinations around Queenstown.
The proposed Whoosh system would operate using autonomous electric pods travelling along elevated guideways built above roads, rivers or private land.
Passengers would book or hail rides through an app and travel between stations or stops known as “Whoosh Points”.
Developed in Christchurch
Whoosh has been developed by Christchurch engineering company Holmes Solutions, which has previously worked with international companies including Google, 3M, Hilti and NASA.
The company says the project has made significant progress over the past year, including development of the concept and proof of operation.
