Two-way traffic will return to Ōropi Rd tomorrow after Tauranga City Council completed the first phase of a major slip repair.

The southbound lane between SH29A and Maleme St will reopen late today, so both lanems will be open before the weekend, the council said.

The project began during the school holidays and was aimed at stabilising a slip below the road.

Council crews are constructing a 6m-high, 60m-long rock wall to protect the section of road, which is considered a critical part of Tauranga’s transport network.

Council transport system operations manager Shawn Geard said the first stage of works had been completed on schedule.

“We’re pleased to have completed this first phase on schedule and be able to reopen both lanes before the school term begins,” he said.

“We know the lane closure and detour have caused significant disruption for road users over the past two weeks, so we’re grateful for the patience and understanding people have shown while this important work has been carried out.”

The first phase involved clearing and preparing the slip area and beginning installation of rocks at the toe of the slip.

Crews have completed the first stage of work to stabilise a slip on Ōropi Rd, allowing the temporary southbound lane closure to be lifted. Photo / Tauranga City Councl

Work would continue over the next four to six weeks as crews complete the retaining wall, with most activity taking place off the road.

Both lanes would remain open during this period, although traffic would be shifted away from the work site, and a temporary 30km/h speed limit would remain in place.

Motorists were urged to take extra care through the area, with heavy construction vehicles continuing to enter and exit the site.

Pedestrian access along the shoulder beside the work zone will remain closed.

Phase 1 involved clearing the slip area, preparing it for construction and beginning the installation of rocks at the slip toe. Photo / Tauranga City Council

The final stage of the project would involve rebuilding the road above the retaining wall and may require night-time lane closures to reduce disruption to daytime traffic.

Geard said the disruption caused during the school holiday lane closure highlighted the importance of the route.

“The past two weeks have again demonstrated the importance of this small section of road and the critical role it plays in keeping people and goods moving across the city.”

The council said the project remained on track for completion in the coming months.