Motorists travelling through Tauranga will get temporary relief from traffic disruptions on Ōropi Rd over the Matariki long weekend.

In a statement on its website, Tauranga City Council said the road, between the SH29A roundabout and Maleme St, would fully open from July 10 to July 12 while work continues to repair a slip affecting the road shoulder.

However, the council has warned that the southbound lane closure would be reinstated on Sunday night and remain in place until July 19 as part of an ongoing project to stabilise the site.

The works began on July 6 and were expected to continue through to September.

Tauranga City Council said crews were making good progress excavating the slip area and preparing for construction of a 60m-long, 6m-high rock wall that will secure the bank and prevent further deterioration of the roadway.

“This work is essential to avoid the slip degrading further and severely impacting the road in the future,” the council said.

The retaining structure would extend down to the Waiorohi Stream and had been selected because it is “economical, effective and relatively quick to construct”.

The design also avoided vibrations that could damage a critical watermain running beneath Ōropi Rd.

Fulton Hogan was carrying out the repairs on behalf of the council.

The most disruptive phase of the project was taking place during the school holidays to reduce impacts on commuters, the council said.

Under the current traffic management plan, the southbound lane on Ōropi Rd is closed 24 hours a day between the SH29A roundabout and Maleme St. Southbound traffic is being diverted via Chadwick Rd and Cameron Rd, while temporary traffic lights are managing northbound traffic through the work site.

A 30km/h speed restriction also remains in place.

The council acknowledged the disruption caused by the works, particularly along Cameron Rd, and thanked motorists for their patience.

“Thanks to all road users for your understanding – we are aware these works are causing disruption to traffic in the area and especially along Cameron Road.”

Drivers were encouraged to check live traffic maps before travelling and use alternative routes where possible.

Maleme St and the section of Ōropi Rd north of the closure remain open in both directions throughout the project.

Construction was expected to take between eight and 10 weeks, with daytime work focused on the road shoulder and the base of the retaining wall.