State Highway 2 between Gisborne and Wairoa will remain closed overnight, following a significant slip south of Bartletts this morning.
Update 4.30pm, Saturday 26 March
State Highway 35 has now reopened between Potaka and Hicks Bay, opening up access from Te Puia Springs north.
The section between Te Puia Springs and Tokomaru Bay remains closed, with the section between Tokomaru Bay and Gisborne open as of this afternoon.
State Highway 2 will remain closed between Gisborne and Wairoa overnight, with another update to be provided tomorrow.
People are encouraged to continue to visit the Waka Kotahi social media pages (Facebook: facebook.com/WakaKotahiHBG(external link) and Twitter: twitter.com/WakaKotahiCNI(external link)) and our Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)), for updates in the interim.
Waka Kotahi National Journey Manager Helen Harris says contractors are working hard to clear the slip, however, it is proving more difficult than was anticipated.
“Dirt from the hills in continuing to fall almost as fast as our contractors can clear it.
“There is, however, some positive news further north, where State Highway 35 is expected to open between Tolaga Bay and Tokomaru Bay from 2pm.
“Our contractors have been working hard to get the road clear and safe, and we know the community between Tolaga Bay and Tokomaru Bay will be pleased to see access restored between Gisborne and Tokomaru Bay.”
Elsewhere on State Highway 35, the road has reopened between Hicks Bay and Te Puia Springs, but remains closed between Potaka and Hicks Bay, and Te Puia Springs and Tokomaru Bay, while State Highway 38 northeast of Frasertown reopened just before 1pm today.
People are encouraged to continue to visit the Waka Kotahi social media pages (Facebook: facebook.com/WakaKotahiHBG(external link) and Twitter: twitter.com/WakaKotahiCNI(external link)) and our Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)), for updates in the interim.
Ms Harris asks motorists to be mindful of contractors who will be out clearing hazards off the road, and drive slowly through work sites.
“We want to see everyone get home safely. Stay safe and stay alert.”
