The NZ Transport Agency is advising that SH2 through the Waimana Gorge will open tomorrow 1 August during daylight hours.
Bay of Plenty System Manager Rob Campbell says the road will open between the hours of 7am and 5:30pm and the site will be continuously monitored during this time to ensure the area remains safe for people to travel through.
“There are still some concerns over the stability of the slip site and continuous monitoring is required. A traffic management crew will be in place to monitor the site for any changes, and can set up a closure if needed.
“When it is dark it is impossible for our staff to see the top of slip, even with lighting towers, so we must shut the road overnight.
“The gorge will also be closed if there is a severe weather warning or significant rainfall forecast, so we encourage motorists to check our social media and website before leaving so they are able to plan their journey,” says Mr Campbell.
If travelling after 5pm motorists are asked to use the existing detour via Whakatane, Ōhope and Wainui which is clearly sign posted.
“We know these restrictions are frustrating and we understand the impact on the route being closed and restricted, however we need to ensure the safety of the public and our staff.
We want to thank road users and the community for their understanding and patience while we continue to work hard to remove the overnight restrictions as soon as possible and get this road fully operational,” says Mr Campbell.
For latest road information, check our web and social media sites.
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