The timing of State Highway 2’s reopening between Gisborne and Ōpōtiki has now been confirmed.
The stretch of highway between Matawai and Ormond sustained significant damage as a result of last weekend’s heavy rainfall with slips, debris and movement in the road.
SH2 will reopen 24/7 from Tuesday morning at 5am (4 July).
Road users will be piloted through the area daily by our contractor between 7am and 5pm. Outside of those times, the road will remain open and will be actively controlled by traffic lights.
Waka Kotahi Hawke’s Bay / Tairāwhiti Journey Manager Andre Taylor says someone on site every night will be closely monitoring the road for any changes or safety concerns.
“If there is more movement in the road for example, the traffic light sequencing will be changed to ensure travel is restricted and motorists need to be prepared for the road to close at short notice.
“There’s a balance between opening the road for as many road users as possible and ensuring people’s safety after the persistent and heavy rain severely impacted the road.
“This road offers a vital link between the East Coast and upper North Island and it’s crucial for communities who live on the East Coast and for freight accessing the region,” says Mr Taylor.
“Contractors will still be working in a number of places along SH2 clearing debris and stablilising slips, so the message for road users is the same – drive to the conditions, expect delays and the potential for a closure at short notice.”
