The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists traveling south to the Argentina-Georgia game in Palmerston North on Sunday to add at least half an hour to their journey times due to the ongoing closure of the Manawatu Gorge.
“Due to the closure of the gorge, we ask motorists travelling to the game from Hawke’s Bay on Sunday to leave at least half an hour early to allow for the closure of the Manawatu Gorge.”
Mr McGonigal says the NZTA appreciated the ongoing patience of the community and motorists as it continued work on the unstable hill that is continuing to offload dirt and rock onto the highway.
Mr McGonigal says the NZTA is working closely with councils and the community to address the impacts the gorge closure is having on the region, and will release a comprehensive update early next week.
Mr McGonigal says that it is also important that fans take their time to ensure a safe journey home after the game.
"People may be returning home after dark, and while we have made extensive safety improvements to the highway network in recent years, it is still important that people drive to the conditions, keep a safe following distance and keep their speeds down.
"Our goal is to ensure Rugby World Cup 2011 is not only a winning one for New Zealand, but a safe one as well. We do not want anyone's World Cup to be marred by an avoidable road crash."
