The NZ Transport Agency says unstable areas high up on a slip site that came down this afternoon on State highway six about 6km south of Makarora near Wanaka, will see this section of highway closed from 7pm tonight until 7am tomorrow, 27 September.
Overnight closures were put in place at the site last week as result of this slip that dates back to 5 September 2012.
NZ Transport Agency Central Otago Area Manager John Jarvis says unstable area is at the top of the slip site about 100 metres above the road. The over hanging areas are causing safety concerns and prompted the decision to close the highway tonight.
“With the steady rain that has been falling in the area today forecast to continue more slip debris is likely to come down overnight. The situation will be reviewed again in the morning, although it may be later tomorrow before a decision is made on any further overnight closures of this section of highway.”
Mr Jarvis said this is a bit of a setback, as good progress was being made on clearing debris from the site including stabilising the lower section of the slip.
The latest information on this closure can be found at www.highwayinfo.govt.nz(external link).
The NZ Transport Agency works to create transport solutions for all New Zealanders – from helping new drivers earn their licences, to leading safety campaigns to investing in public transport, state highways and local roads. Follow us on twitter @nzta_news.
