The NZ Transport Agency says part of State Highway (SH94) to Milford Sound has been re-opened following heavy snowfalls in the area over the last week.
SH94 from the Hollyford turn-off to Milford Sound was closed by heavy snow last Friday and for much of this week, nearly half of the 120km long highway was closed by snow.
NZTA Southland Assets Manager Peter Robinson says the 30km section of the highway from Knobbs Flat to Hollyford turn-off re-opened to traffic this afternoon. While there has been a slight improvement in the weather, contractors working on clearing the snow are still dealing with unpredictable weather conditions.
“If the weather continues to make the small improvements seen today, it is possible the highway through to Milford Sound may re-open on Saturday, but there are no guarantees as there is a massive amount of snow to shift.”
The NZTA’s Milford Avalanche Programme has been monitoring risk levels since the road closed last Friday with several avalanches over that period although none have damaged the road.
Peter Robinson said a convoy of about 10 vehicles came out from Milford Sound this afternoon. All the tourists that were at Milford Sound when the road closed last Friday left in an earlier convoy. The remaining people at Milford Sound are prepared to sit tight until the road re-opens.
Anyone considering using this highway is urged to call 0800 4HIGHWAY for road updates first or go to www.highwayinfo.govt.nz
Bob Nettleton
Regional Communications Advisor
T DDI 03 951 3005
M 021 954 928
E-mail bob.nettleton@nzta.govt.nz
