The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists that State Highway 1 between Paekakariki and Pukerua Bay is expected to be closed for several hours due to a slip.
The Transport Agency advises motorists to delay all journeys until further notice. Detours are unavailable as the Paekakariki Hill Road is affected by slips and flooding. Train services have also been suspended.
Police are on the scene helping motorists to turn around, and contractors are at the scene to remove the slip, which is about 40 cubic metres in volume.
“It’s been one of the wettest weeks in recent memory, and this has taken its toll by causing slips across the local transport network,” says Operations Centre Project Director Mike Seabourne.
“We know how frustrating it is to miss appointments, work and other commitments, and we assure motorists that our contractors will be working furiously to get the road safely reopened.”
Mr Seabourne thanked the public for their patience and understanding. He reminded motorists that conditions across the entire transport network were slippery, and it was important to watch following distances and speed. He also urged people to prepare in advance for any travel plans later in the day throughout the Wellington region.
“Heavy rain is expected for the rest of the day so plan ahead for travel home tonight, and consider leaving earlier than usual if you need to pick up children.”
Mr Seabourne says the Wellington Transport Operations Centre is managing the situation and working hard with contractors on the ground to get the road open and keep travellers safe.
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