The NZ Transport Agency is advising that SH4 between Whanganui and Raetihi has been closed due to a high risk slip site identified at a site roughly two kilometres south of Fields Track.
NZTA Regional Transport Systems Manager Ross I’Anson says the potential slip site was identified today during a regularly scheduled geotechnical inspection, and the road has been closed as a precaution while a more detailed inspection is undertaken.
Mr I’Anson says SH4 through the Paraparas has several bluffs along its length, where the material that makes up these areas (papa) is particularly susceptible to weathering.
“The Transport Agency regularly monitors these bluffs as part of an ongoing geotechnical inspection regime for the road. While it difficult to predict exactly where or when a specific part of the slope may fail due to the unstable nature of papa, our geotechnical experts have advised that the road should be closed as a precaution until a more detailed inspection can be completed at this site.”
A further update will be provided by mid-morning on Tuesday. The road was closed at approximately 5pm Monday.
