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Queenstown’s proposed cable car network is progressing, with local alpine industry veteran Toby Arnott appointed Establishment General Manager as the project moves through design and consenting.
The Southern Infrastructure-led project proposes a fully electric passenger network capable of carrying up to 3,000 passengers per hour in each direction above Queenstown’s congested road corridor. The project was referred under the Fast Track Approvals Act in April and is targeting an opening in summer 2029/30.
Southern Infrastructure chief executive Ross Copland says the system could provide capacity equivalent to a bus every minute between the busiest parts of Queenstown, with a proposed two-year build programme.
“The cable car project is equivalent to a bus every minute connecting the busiest parts of town. Most importantly, it can provide immediate relief with a build programme of just two years.”
Arnott brings more than 27 years’ experience across alpine resorts in New Zealand, Japan and the United States, including senior roles with NZSki, Treble Cone and California’s Sugar Bowl Resort. His experience includes passenger ropeways, safety, asset management and major infrastructure projects.
Born and raised in Queenstown, Toby says the project responds to increasing pressure on the district’s infrastructure.
“Growth has brought incredible opportunities, but also real pressure on infrastructure. This project is about making it easier for everyone to get around the district so they can enjoy what makes Queenstown special.”
Ross says Toby’s appointment will also strengthen the project’s local connection as work progresses towards establishing the cable car operation.
