State Highway 2 between Kotemaori and Wairoa will remain closed overnight following a large slip in the early hours of this morning.
Heavy rainfall over the weekend led to the slip, which initially blocked both lanes of the road near the intersection with Waikare Road.
A geotechnical assessment carried out this afternoon has advised more work needs to be done before the stretch of road can safely open.
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Hawke’s Bay / Tairāwhiti System Manager Martin Colditz says crews have been working all day to clear the slips but a closure is needed overnight to ensure the safety of everyone wanting to use the road.
“Having to remain closed overnight is disappointing but necessary given the risk of more material coming down.
“Crews from both the northern and southern sides of the slip will be back at site tomorrow morning, to reassess the slip and continue work to clear it.
NZ Transport Agency will provide an update as early as possible tomorrow morning on the situation.
