The NZ Transport Agency is advising that there is significant damage* to State Highway 60 between Riwaka and Takaka over the Takaka Hill in Tasman District.
“Multiple crews will be working on the Takaka Hill today and in coming days but it is likely to take at least several days before we’re able to re-open the road to a single lane,” says Frank Porter, Transport Agency System Manager. “We will update that timeline on Friday morning(external link).”
NZ Transport Agency staff got a closer look at the road from a helicopter earlier today and full assessments of how parts of the damaged road will be repaired are underway.
“There are 16 slips between Riwaka Valley and the Summit of Takaka Hill with two sections of road completely washed away,” says Mr Porter. “We understand how important this highway is to Golden Bay and will be doing our best to get that link re-established.”
State Highway 60 is open on the Nelson side to the Marahau turn off (Riwaka/ Sandy Bay Rd), and on the Takaka side is closed from Upper Takaka except for local residents.
The Transport Agency is working closely with Tasman District Council and Emergency Management to ensure everyone is on the same page with repairs and realistic timelines.
Wider South Island
All current road closures and warnings will be updated in real time during the storm event at http://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/(external link), and drivers can also call 0800 44 44 49 for 24/7 updates on road conditions, closures or delays.
The latest severe weather information is available at http://www.metservice.com/warnings/severe-weather-warnings(external link). For emergency and disaster updates visit www.civildefence.govt.nz(external link)
*Drone footage shows numerous slips on Takaka Hill (external link)
Social media updates South Island:
https://twitter.com/NZTACWC(external link)
https://www.facebook.com/nztasouthisland/(external link)
Other Facebook pages:
Nelson Tasman Civil Defence
https://www.facebook.com/nelsontasmancivildefenceandemergencymanagement/(external link)
Buller DC Civil Defence
https://www.facebook.com/BullerCD/(external link)
West Coast Emergency Management
https://www.facebook.com/emergencywestcoast(external link)
Kaikoura District Council
https://www.facebook.com/KaikouraDistrictCouncil/(external link)
