Paihiatua Track is now open.
Heavy rainfall, slips and surface flooding closed the Track earlier today, along with Ballance Valley Road/Gorge Rd.
Crews have been onsite during the day clearing the slips and debris and the Track opened to traffic around 5pm.
Traffic management will remain in place on one corner, known locally as the ‘25km corner.’
Ballance Valley Rd/Gorge Rd remains closed until further notice, with crews continuing to assess extensive drainage and culvert blockages at multiple locations. There’s also damage to the approaches to Bremner’s Bridge, and this is likely to be closed for a longer period (between 2 and 4 weeks.)
All other local state highways remain open, however please be careful and drive to the conditions – with the possibility of further surface flooding or slips as the rain continues.
Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations Rua Pani says caution is needed when driving the Track over the coming days.
“It’s good news the road is now open, however people should continue to be on the lookout for slips and flooding, as the ground is already saturated. And please drive to the conditions – take care around sites which have temporary traffic management.”
Please also expect short-notice closures should conditions worsen and keep an eye on the NZTA Journey Planner for any changes.
