"We know how keen people are to see these options and we've worked hard with our local partners to get to this point as quickly as possible. We've looked at all previously identified alternative route options as well as assessing new proposals, so that we can present a broad range of possible solutions for public feedback," Mr I'Anson said.
Mrs Collis said she'll be interested to see if the hybrid (partial) tunnel option is on the list.
"I'm pleased the NZTA actions are continuing to match their words and it's great to see their commitment to consult and engage with our community. It's absolutely fabulous," she said.
Although understanding the pressures the closure of the gorge is putting on people throughout Tararua, Mrs Collis said "Woodville is picking up.""I've noticed a lift in the whole town and the shop Woodville campaign is making a big difference," she said.
The NZTA are also making an interactive website available to make it quick and easy for people to provide feedback on options.
"The website will allow people to place virtual pins onto a map illustrating the different options and they'll be able to attach their feedback to the pin," Mr I'Anson said.
"We hope this will encourage more people to engage in the process, so we can collect feedback, comments and suggestions from as many people as possible for review and consideration."
Along with the interactive website, which will go live from Monday, the NZTA will be hosting two public meetings and two open days in Woodville and Palmerston North.
The first public meeting will be held on Monday in Palmerston North and the second next Tuesday, September 26 in Woodville. The meetings will give people an opportunity to review the long list of options and talk to NZTA representatives.
Separate public open days where people can provide feedback on the options will be held in Palmerston North and Woodville, running from 3pm to 8pm and public feedback on the options will be open until Monday, October 23.
The public engagement process will help to identify the best performing option for an alternative route which delivers the best outcomes for the region by December Mr I'Anson said.
Have your say on the Manawatu Gorge route:
* Public meetings will be held at the Palmerston North Convention Centre on Monday, September 25 from 6pm and at the Woodville Sports Stadium on Tuesday, September 26, also at 6pm.
* There will be public open days at the Palmerston North Convention Centre, Monday, October 11, 3pm to 8pm and at the Woodville Sports Stadium on Tuesday, October 12, 3pm to 8pm.
* More information about how people can have their say will be available on the project website from September 25, at: www.nzta.govt.nz/manawatu-gorge