Herepuru Road is Now Open For Light Vehicle Travel

Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 6:16 AM

By Aimee Stanton

The road has been closed since the beginning of February, following a large slip caused by recent storms.

Yesterday, Whakatāne District Council announced Herepuru Road will be open from 5pm.

It said a geotechnical inspection confirmed "any further slip risks on Herepuru Road have been adequately managed."

However, the road is not open to all motorists just yet.

"Heavy vehicles must continue to use Manawahē Road," said the Council.

Herepuru Road will open to one lane only, keeping traffic away from the "cracked and slumping" part of the road.

Council said monitoring equipment will be installed so a close eye can be kept on the area.

It thanks the community for their patience and those putting in the mahi to get the slip sorted.

We’re committed to keeping the Eastern Bay informed with accurate, timely coverage.
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