The section of State Highway 2 between Napier and Wairoa will stay open all night. This morning, Tuesday December 5, the part of the road between Kotemaori and Putorino was opened to one lane at 6.30am after an early morning geotechnical assessment.
The site of Sunday’s landslide has been blocked off, and traffic control measures are in place. These include traffic lights and a speed limit.
Martin Colditz, the System Manager for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi Hawke’s Bay / Tairāwhiti, said that traffic has been steady today. He added that they can keep the single lane open all night, but at a slower speed. Martin emphasized that the safety of everyone on the road and the work crews is very important.
He also said that many people have been eager to get through as quickly as possible. He reminded drivers to adjust their driving to the road conditions, expect delays, and be respectful of the work crews.
For a safe and enjoyable journey, plan ahead and stay updated with traffic updates at journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic.