Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Good progress is being made on recovery works on State Highway 6 Rocks Road.
Repairs and improvements have been underway at the site since November, in response to slips and debris falls that occurred on the route during bad winter weather this year.
Rob Service, System Manager Nelson/Tasman, says a considerable amount of work has been done.
“Contractors have cleared vegetation from a southern section of the cliff near Tāhunanui Beach.”
“Part of an old mesh fence system that had reached the end of its working life has also been removed. This all helps reduce the risk of more material falling onto the road below,” Mr Service says
He says there is still more work to do, as this has been the first part of a multi-stage works programme, which will continue until around March 2026.
“Over the coming months, workers will continue to install ground anchors for the new mesh netting – of which there are several hundred to get through. This is already underway and will help make the cliff above the highway more resistant to slips and rockfalls.”
Because contractors are working above the road, Mr Service says the public has to be kept safe from the risk of falling debris.
“Traffic management may still be needed throughout the rest of the project and may, at times, include temporary lane and road closures.”
“However, work over summer should have minimal impact on the state highway, and no work will be happening over the Christmas/New Year break.”
“Please bear with us as we complete this critical investment into creating safer and more reliable roads,” Mr Service says.
Businesses along Rocks Road will also remain open during these works, and access to them will be retained. Locals are encouraged to continue supporting them while the project is underway.
