The NZ Transport Agency is monitoring a section of SH5 near the Utuhina Bridge in Rotorua, where a hole was discovered in the road over the weekend.
The Transport Agency’s Bay of Plenty Highway Manager, Niclas Johansson, says the northbound lane of the highway around the hole will be closed to traffic from approximately 2pm today, to allow contractors to use a camera to establish the extent of the problem.
“At this stage we are still determining the extent of the issue, however we are focused on finding a solution as quickly as possible to minimise disruption,” he says.
“We have closed a lane to ensure motorist safety and to prevent vehicles from damaging the site until we can complete emergency works to repair the road.”
The closure affects the lane through the SH5/ SH30A intersection and will cause queuing and delays for travellers, Mr Johansson says.
“It is likely the lane closure will remain in place for a number of weeks while we complete emergency works.
“SH5 is the main route to Hamilton and Auckland so we encourage people to plan for delays when travelling north through Rotorua.”
Motorists wanting to avoid the area can travel to the CBD via Malfoy Road and Ranolf Street (northbound traffic) or via Lake Road and Ranolf Street (southbound traffic).
“We expect to have information this week which will enable us to make some decisions on the type of emergency works we will need to do,” Mr Johansson says.
“Fixing any problem in this area will involve large machinery and excavation to fill the hole, no matter what size it is, so unfortunately there will be disruption to traffic.”
“The Transport Agency apologises for any inconvenience and thanks drivers for their patience and understanding at this time.
For real time information on highway conditions and incidents visit www.nzta.govt.nz 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
For more information please contact:
Natalie Dixon
Waikato / Bay of Plenty Media Manager
T: 07 928 7908
M: 021 928 413
E: natalie.dixon@nzta.govt.nz
