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.
Have a news tip or story idea? Email news@1xx.co.nz.

More from Good News

New Government Homelessness Funding to Support Whakatāne Rough Sleepers

More support is on the way for people experiencing homelessness in Whakatāne, with the Government confirming the district will be one of six new locations to receive targeted funding aimed at supporting rough sleepers and vulnerable whānau.
East Coast Theatre Bringing the Ōpōtiki Stages Back to Life

A new community theatre group hopes to bring more live performances to Ōpōtiki, starting with a Short Play Festival later this year.
Trust Horizon Bill Moves Closer to Expanding Community Funding

Trust Horizon's bid to expand its charitable funding powers has cleared another hurdle in Parliament, with a private bill progressing through the select committee process and attracting widespread support from local organisations, councils, iwi and community groups.
Ōpōtiki Wharf Jetty Extension Underway, Completion Set for July 2026

Construction has begun on the Ōpōtiki Township Wharf Jetty extension.
Local Teen Sets Sail on Royal New Zealand Navy Career

A young Whakatāne woman has graduated from Royal New Zealand Navy basic training, taking the first step towards a career operating some of the military’s most advanced combat systems.