Waioweka Gorge Convoy Times and Length Changing

NZTA said the changes will allow crews to work uninterrupted for longer periods to get the road to two lanes faster.

From Monday, the convoy distance through SH2 Waioweka Gorge will be shortened to approximately 2.6km, with controlled access through the Goldsmith slip area. 

Each piloted trip is estimated to take around 10 - 20 minutes with these changes. 

The Gisborne side convoy meeting point will move to 1km north of the Oponae rest area.

The Ōpōtiki side meeting point remains unchanged.

"This will give crews more time on the ground to continue stabilisation work at the Goldsmith slip site so the road can be restored to normal two-way traffic sooner," NZTA said. 

Convoys will continue running seven days a week, but at altered times. 

From Monday, Gisborne bound convoys will leave at 7:00am, 12:30pm, and 6:30pm.

Ōpōtiki bound convoys will leave at 7:30am, 1:00pm, and 7:00pm. 

NZTA continue to encourage motorists to use the convoys for essential travel only and say drivers should be prepared for the road to close at short notice if weather conditions or risk assessments change.