Waka Kotahi expect SH2 Matawai to Te Karaka to remain closed until at least Friday, due to fresh slips and further movement over the weekend.
Central North Island Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations Jaclyn Hankin said in an update last night, "SH2 between Matawai and Ormond remains closed as further movement has made it unsafe for road users and unsuitable for heavy vehicles"
“The freight industry relies heavily on this road to connect Tairāwhiti to the upper North Island. On Friday we had a successful afternoon of escorted convoys. The ground movement over the weekend has meant a repeat of those convoys unrealistic and unsafe for now. However, we are working as quickly and safely as possible to get the road to a point where another escorted convoy is possible,"
“Unfortunately, we don’t anticipate this will be before Friday, but we will communicate the next convoy with all road users, including the freight industry, as early as we can. We realise this is a crucial part of the network for the freight industry and we want to thank everyone for their understanding during what is a frustrating time for everyone affected,” Hankin says.
State Highway 35 from Ruatoria to Gisborne is currently open.
Waka Kotahi note, due to adverse weather conditions, there is uneven road surface, various speed restrictions and traffic management in place. Motorists are asked to take care and allow extra time for your journey.
Image: SH2 north of Gisborne (Supplied).
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