State Highway 35 is now reopen to a single lane at the site of a large slip between Beach Road and the Motu River Bridge east of Ōpōtiki.

Waka Kotahi Bay of Plenty transport systems manager Roger Brady says contractors have worked urgently today to clear enough material, including large fallen trees, to allow the road to safely re-open to a single lane will work continues to clear the remainder of the slip.

“Our contractors have done a great job to get a lane open so quickly. There is still a lot of work to do, and we’re asking people to drive safely through the site and comply with the temporary speed restrictions which are in place to keep drivers and workers safe.”

Roger says geotechnical engineers will continue to monitor the site closely to manage any risks of further debris coming down onto the road. This means the road may need to close again if weather or visibility deteriorates.

“We know how important this connection is for residents and businesses in the area, and we’re doing everything possible to stabilise the site and keep the road open, but the safety of road users and roadworkers is our top priority and we won’t hesitate to close the road again if needed.”

Drivers are urged to check the latest conditions before travelling.

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey. Keep up to date with:

• Traffic updates: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic 
• Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWaikatoBoP
• Twitter: twitter.com/WakaKotahiWaiBP
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz
• Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)