The long Labour weekend is almost upon us and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is encouraging people to use its Holiday Journey Planner to make the most of travel around Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti.
The Holiday Journey Planner is the up to date, interactive map with information on road works, closures and delays - because predicted peak times for travel regularly changes based on traffic incidents, weather or driver behaviour.
Holiday Journey Planner(external link)
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti System Manager Martin Colditz says local roading crews on the East Coast stopped work at midday today (Thursday) to make it easier for people travelling this long weekend – to minimise disruption.
State Highway 2 between Wairoa and Napier is one of the cyclone-damaged areas which has seen a lot of activity over the past 18 months.
Work is now finishing on more recovery sites on the lower section of Devil’s Elbow.
Two-lane access has been restored over the weekend to the lower section of the elbow including the elbow itself. A temporary speed limit of 30 km/h will stay in place.
One section of stop/go traffic management will remain at an area known as Devil’s Corner, about 2 kilometres south of the elbow. A delay of up to 5 minutes through this site is still expected.
The lower section of Devil’s Elbow will be reduced temporarily to a single lane from next week while a final layer of asphalt is laid before being back to two lanes long-term in November.
“We are grateful to communities for their support during this frustrating recovery period, to crews for their hard work and road users for their understanding. We know it hasn’t been easy with so many worksites in operation and we do want to reiterate our thanks to people for their patience,” says Mr Colditz.
Further north, traffic lights will remain in place through worksites at Otoko Hill, and one section will remain as a single lane.
“Allow plenty of time. You’re on holiday, there’s no need to rush. By keeping up to date with our Journey Planner, you can minimise your travel time and make the most of your destination,” says Mr Colditz.
Roadworkers will restart at sites across the region from 7am on Tuesday.
During the long weekend, there will be crews responding to emergency call outs and works if and when needed. If you need to report anything urgently, including potholes, please call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS.
