SH43 on Hospital Hill has been reduced to one lane while the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) undertakes repairs to an underslip near the top of the incline.

Ruapehu Land Transport Manager Warren Furner said that while NZTA carries out remedial work the affected section of the Hospital Hill road will be reduced to 30kph and one lane controlled by traffic lights.

“People using Hospital Hill are asked to take care and be patient at busy periods of the day.

The underslip just back from the top corner has undermined the footpath and there is the possibility that we could lose part of the road if more of the bank falls away.

NZTA will be undertaking a geotechnical assessment to determine the potential risk for more underslipping to occur and determine the best way to make repairs.

Because of the need for a technical assessment and the difficulties associated with the site people should expect that it may be some time before the road is back in full service.”

Mr Furner added that Council will also be working with NZTA to ensure that the alternative detour route off Hekeawai Drive that links down to SH4 can be used by emergency vehicles if required.

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