The NZ Transport Agency is making emergency repairs to the sea protection on State Highway 1 between Paekakariki to Pukerua Bay following damage sustained during ex-cyclone Gita.
NZ Transport Agency Senior Journey Manager Neil Walker says one lane of the road is currently open to traffic in both directions under Stop/Go traffic management, but traffic in the area is heavy.
“We encourage people to avoid or delay traveling through this area. If you have to travel, the Paekakariki Hill Road is open for light vehicles only, but drivers are urged to take extra care and slow down, given the increased volume of traffic using this route,” Mr Walker says.
“Crews are currently working to clear the debris away before installing large rocks to reinstate a barrier between the sea and the highway.”
“Temporary concrete barriers will then be installed and once the road is cleared we can re-open the northbound lane. Stop/ Go can then be removed.”
“It is unlikely this work will be completed by the afternoon peak so we are asking road-users to delay travel or avoid the area if possible.”
The road itself hasn’t been undermined, but a 60m section of the guardrail and footpath has been. That means the footpath and cycleway are closed.
“The next high tide will hit at 2pm this afternoon and we are concerned that heavy seas could potentially cause further damage. Crew are working as quickly as possible, but high tide could cause delays to repairs and make it difficult to work safely.”
