Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
State Highway 6 is being closed for safety reasons as contractors work to assess and clear a slip on the highway 6 south of Wakefield.
Tresca Forrester, Acting System Manager Top of the South, says the slip on the Spooners Range between Belgrove and Kohatu. The highway will be closed between these locations from 5.30 tonight.
“Some material fell earlier today, and there is a danger that more material may come down. This poses a real risk to drivers – particularly at night. So, to make sure everyone is kept safe, the highway must be closed.”
Spooners Range slip, State Highway 6
Ms Forrester says the slip face will need a geotechnical investigation.
“It’s essential we know just how stable or unstable this slip is. We can’t take any chances with a wet weather forecast for early next week. The highway will remain closed while the slip is assessed and debris cleared.”
The closure will be in place overnight and for much of tomorrow. The highway’s status will be updated late tomorrow afternoon.
The detour for southbound road users is left off State Highway 6 onto Wai-iti Valley Road, right onto Stock Road, right onto Valley Road, right onto North Road, left back onto State Highway 6. The reverse for northbound road users. This detour is suitable for all vehicles but will result in longer journey times. Drivers should factor this into their travel plans.
Waka Kotahi wants to thank drivers for their cooperation during this closure. Contractors are making every effort to reopen the road as quickly as possible.
