State Highway 35 near Whitianga Bay in the eastern Bay of Plenty will remained closed due to the instability of a slip.

The slip which is about 40 kilometres from Opotiki occurred yesterday morning.

NZTA Bay of Plenty Transport System Manager, Rob Campbell says the slip remains a safety risk and it's unclear at this stage when the road will reopen.

'Our immediate priority is to get this road clear and the crew onsite is making good progress, however the debris is continuing to fall making it difficult to even get one lane open.”

'People should continue to check the website and social media or call us on 0800 4 HIGHWAYS before travelling through this area,” says Rob.

The New Zealand Transport Agency thanks road users for their understanding and patience and asks them to remain cautious in the area.

To stay updated:

•Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)

•Website: nzta.govt.nz/traffic

•Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWaikatoBoP/

•Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz