19 December 2014 | NZ Transport Agency - Waikato & Bay of Plenty

SH5 Rotorua - emergency works complete

The NZ Transport Agency has reopened all lanes on State Highway 5 (SH5) in Rotorua, after sealing a large hole that developed on the route last week.

The hole was discovered on SH5 near Utuhina Bridge last weekend, and meant contractors had to close the northbound lane of the highway so they could excavate the area.

The Transport Agency’s Bay of Plenty Highway Manager, Niclas Johansson says the hole was caused by water from the Utuhina Stream and a nearby storm water drain.

He says contractors spent yesterday excavating the hole, before filling it in and resealing it so it could reopen just after 12.30pm today.

“Initially we thought we would have to close the lane for a number of weeks,depending on the cause of the hole. Thankfully, it has turned out to be less severe than expected, and our contractors have worked hard to solve this issue quickly to avoid delays to holiday travellers,” he said.

Mr Johansson says the Transport Agency would continue to monitor the site.

“The Transport Agency apologises for any inconvenience and thanks drivers for their patience and understanding during the works,” he says.

For real time information on highway conditions and incidents visitwww.nzta.govt.nz call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or follow @nztawaibop on twitter.

For personalised information about driving conditions on their frequently used routes, motorists can check out and sign up to On The Move at www.onthemove.govt.nz

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