The NZ Transport Agency says it is on track to re-open State Highway 1 on the Brynderwyn Hills in Northland to both lanes of traffic tomorrow (Friday July 25).
“We've made great progress and the work to stabilise the underslip is now complete. If Mother Nature co-operates we'll be able to carry out pavement works overnight and tomorrow apply lane markings, and clean the site up to be ready for traffic in the afternoon.
"Again we would like to take this opportunity to thank people for their ongoing patience as we've worked to repair the damage caused by the wild weather. We know how painful these road closures can be, and our contractors have gone flat out to repair this small but complex slip as quickly as possible," says the Transport Agency’s Regional Journey Manager Jacqui Hori-Hoult.
Whangarei Mayor Sheryl Mai also thanked the Transport Agency and its contractors for their considerable efforts aimed at getting State Highway 1 open again as quickly as possible.
“They are working long hours in difficult conditions, and we appreciate their diligent response,” Mayor Mai says.
The patience of drivers caught in slow traffic, and of rural residents on normally quiet roads that have suddenly become highways, is also appreciated.
“I’m grateful for their tolerance during this challenging time when it is essential for the economies of Whangarei and Northland to keep traffic moving,” Mayor Mai says.
The highway was closed when heavy rain at the weekend caused an underslip affecting 20 metres of the main road link between Northland and Auckland.
Until the highway is re-opened, people driving north are advised to use SH12 and Paparoa-Oakleigh Road. Those heading south can travel through Waipu and Mangawhai. The detours will add between 30 and 40 minutes to travel times.
The Transport Agency reminds all drivers that the detours are rural roads and to take care and observe speed limits.
For more information please contact:
Ewart Barnsley
Auckland/Northland Media Manager
NZ Transport Agency
T: 09 928 8720
M: 027 213 7616
E: ewart.barnsley@nzta.govt.nz
