In this case, Bathurst did or does have an alternative, the West...

In this case, Bathurst did or does have an alternative, the West Coast rail system is prone to earthquakes, slips and flooding, and over the years this has led to delays in rail shipments. You only have to see some of the frail wooden trestle bridges used to realise this option's frailty. There are 5 viaducts and 17 tunnels on the Transalpine route
Seventy-five truckloads per day are going to Ikamatua, lets hope this delay is only until December and is not extended further. we all know how Kiwirail is overly optimistic.