Emergency road repairs in Papamoa

Emergency repairs on a section of State Highway 2 are causing lengthy delays in Papamoa and the New Zealand Transport Association is asking motorists to take extra care.

Cracks along the section of SH2 between Kairua Road and Domain Road have appeared following Tuesday night’s heavy rainfall.

Motorists are experiencing lengthy delays as emergency works are undertaken on SH2 in Papamoa. Photo: Zoe Hunter.

NZTA’s Bay of Plenty state highway manager Brett Gliddon says the cracks are a result of large quantities of sand being laid adjacent to the highway in combination with the wet weather earlier in the week.

As part of the NZTA Tauranga Eastern Link Project, the sand is being laid adjacent to the highway to compact the ground beneath, to provide a firm base on which the new road will be constructed, says Brett.

“Following Tuesday’s heavy rainfall large ruts have appeared in the road which requires emergency repairs to be undertaken. It is anticipated that some cracking to sections of this road surface may continue to occur until the surcharge is removed in approximately 12 months’ time.”

Lane diversions and temporary speed restrictions are in place.

The northbound and southbound lanes will be moved across to one side and a 50 kilometre per hour speed restriction is in place, together with a manual stop/go as required. 

Motorists are advised to take extra care while driving through this area and can be expect delays during peak travel times.

Brett says the works are expected to be completed by Sunday, July 8.

The NZTA thanks motorists for their continued patience and assistance while this work is being undertaken.