The NZ Transport Agency advises motorists in the Far North that it plans to go ahead with resurfacing State Highway 1 through the Mangamuka Gorge, starting this weekend.
However, in response to community feedback, it has changed the road closure times and days, says NZ Transport Agency System Manager, Steve Mutton.
The new plan is to close the road for four days at a time, instead of three.
The first closure, which is dependent on dry weather, will take place on:
On each day, the road will be:
The earlier plan was for an all-day closure starting at 7:30am, but the new plan should allow traffic heading to the A&P Show in Kaitaia on Saturday to get through on SH1 and get home again. It also means people using the road for school, work and freight can plan ahead, says Mr Mutton.
The second closure is scheduled for 4 days from Saturday, March 3 to Tuesday, March 6 at the same times.
The road closures are to allow full-width resurfacing of a number of separate areas through the gorge. To do the work safely and to the highest standard, road crews will close the state highway between Mangamuka and Kaitaia, says Mr Mutton.
While the road is closed, crews will carry out other maintenance, including vegetation and drain clearing, cleaning signs and removing rubbish.
There will be a detour in place via State Highway 10 between Awanui and Pakaraka. The detour will add about 10 kilometres to a one way journey.
The Transport Agency urges motorists to plan their journey, allow extra time and follow the detour road signs. When SH1 is reopened, keep to the posted speed limits to give the new road surface a chance to set.
The Transport Agency thanks the local community for their feedback on the planned closures and apologises for any inconvenience while we carry out this important safety and maintenance work.
Check the Transport Agency’s website: www.nzta.govt.nz(external link) for the latest highway information or sign up to www.onthemove.govt.nz(external link) for up-to-date information on what is happening on the route you plan to travel; Freephone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS for national and regional travel updates.
