Pothole repairs are a focus on Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti state highways following last week’s torrential rain.
State Highway 38 between Lake Waikaremoana and Frasertown is currently the only state highway in both regions still closed to general traffic, with access to one lane for emergency services and residents – traffic management crews are at the closure points.
All other state highways remain open.
No major slips were reported over the weekend.
Crews are continuing to temporarily repair potholes as quickly as possible. This was also a focus last week during the heavy rainfall.
Crews are also continuing to monitor the network for any further damage, slips or debris following last weekend’s heavy rainfall and strong winds.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi System Manager Ray Edwards says it’s important to remember the repairs are only temporary, because hotter, drier weather is needed for more permanent solutions such as resealing.
“We’re strongly advising all road users to drive to the conditions when they see a pothole, slow down and when it’s safe to do so, report the pothole and its location to 0800 4 HIGHWAYS.”
Mr Edwards says while there have been no further slips over the weekend or more flooding, people need to take extreme care when driving between and around both regions.
“The roads and the surrounding land have seen a lot of rainfall – and there is still a small possibility for slips to occur. Please take your time while driving and be alert.”
