Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) contractors are hard at work at several state highway sites across the top of the South Island, as the massive clean-up and repair job in the region continues.
The summary below outlines the current status of the region’s state highway network.
SH6 Rocks Road – CLOSED
State Highway 6 Rocks Road remains CLOSED between Bisley Avenue and Richardson Street, while work continues to assess the slip and rockfall, and to remove loose material and vegetation.
“Areas at the top of the cliff have been destabilised by the heavy rain. We’re working to remove the loose material and vegetation from the top of the cliff so that the road can be safely reopened as soon as possible,” says Rob Service, NZTA System Manager Nelson/Tasman.
The route remains closed to all traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians until further notice. NZTA is reminding everyone not to go beyond the closure points on Rocks Road, as there is serious danger from potential falling debris, while contractors work to remove material from the cliff face.
To allow people to access businesses and shops on Rocks Road, there is a ‘soft closure’ in place at the intersection of Russell Street, but no travel is permitted between Bisley Avenue and Richardson Street.
NZTA will provide updates as further information is available.
SH60 Takaka Hill – OPEN
State Highway 60 Tākaka Hill is OPEN to light and heavy vehicles, but the road has suffered slip and washout damage and extra care and time is needed when travelling this route. The road remains vulnerable to further disruptions and possible closure.
There are active worksites on Takaka Hill which are under temporary speed restrictions and single lane sections, both operating 24/7. Please be careful and patient when driving over the hill and adhere to the temporary speed limits.
SH6 Belgrove to Kohatu – OPEN
State Highway 6 is OPEN between Belgrove and Kohatu. Extra care and time is needed when travelling this route. There are three active worksites in this section of road under temporary speed restrictions 24/7 and one single lane section controlled by traffic lights.
SH63 – OPEN to residents and essential travel only
SH63 between Waihopai Valley Road and Korere-Tophouse Road is open for residents and those with essential travel needs only.
General advice
All other state highways are open, but it is not business as usual on the roads or for driving.
Across the network, because of weather damage, drivers must drive to the conditions and take extreme care when travelling. There remains an ongoing risk of slips, rock and tree falls, and the potential for further road closures. These may happen at short notice.
Road users can expect to encounter multiple road work and repair sites across the region and must allow extra time for their journeys.
Please follow all traffic management and temporary speed limits in place. They are there to keep the public and work crews safe.
