The NZ Transport Agency advises motorists that State Highway 36 (Tauranga Direct Road) at the Mangapouri Gorge Bridge will be CLOSED to all traffic from 9pm on Sunday April 19 until 5am Monday.
The road closure is in place to allow contractors to safely carry out road works on the approaches to the one-way bridge.
People wishing to travel between Rotorua and Tauranga during the closure are advised to use SH5 and SH29 over the Kaimai Range or Hamurana Road, SH33 and SH2 through Te Puke.
The alternative routes will add approximately 20 minutes to normal travel time.
The work is weather dependent and will be postponed to May 3, if necessary.
The Transport Agency thanks motorists for their understanding during the closure.
Mangapouri Gorge Bridge
For real time information on highway conditions and incidents visit www.nzta.govt.nz(external link) call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or follow @nztawaibop on twitter.
For personalised information about driving conditions on their frequently used routes, motorists can check out and sign up to On The Move at www.onthemove.govt.nz.(external link)
