The NZ Transport Agency is advising that State Highway 3, just south of Mokau will remain closed until at least midday Monday 19 September, following a rock fall mid-morning on Sunday 18 September.
An assessment by a geotechnical engineer advised that it was not safe to open the road due to the risk of further rock fall. The next assessment will be made Monday around lunchtime.
An alternative route, via Ohura, is currently being assessed to see if it is suitable for continued use overnight. Some of this route is narrow gravel road and will not be suitable for heavy vehicles.
“We appreciate that State Highway 3 is the main route between Taranaki and the Waikato, and we are working to get this section open again as soon as it is safe,” Karen Boyt, Regional Performance Manager, NZ Transport Agency says.
“The NZ Transport Agency's website - www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic(external link) - will be updated with road status information, and we will have electronic message signs at key routes advising whether roads are open.”
Transport Agency contractors are also on site at a slip at Tangarakau Gorge, State Highway 43, which is currently blocking both sides of the road. The aim is to get this open within the next couple of hours. Alternative routes are available over Mt. Damper to Ahititi or via Ohura.
“As conditions can change rapidly, we advise people to check the latest road updates before they get on the road. This could mean delaying your journey.”
Motorists can get real time information from:
The Transport Agency’s Winter Journeys website www.nzta.govt.nz/winter-journeys(external link) brings together tips on winter driving and links to get updates on the latest weather and road conditions.
