26 July 2012

Update on Coromandel state highway conditions

The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and their contractors are continuing to work to reinstate full access to state highways around the Coromandel.

A slip closed State Highway 25, Thames Coast Highway, near Ruamahunga late yesterday. The slip has brought down a large pine tree with a significant root system onto the highway. Contractors are currently clearing the site and the road is expected to be open around lunchtime today.

Further along State Highway 25 between Coromandel Town and Whitianga, clearing of a major slip west of Te Rerenga (before Quarry Road) is underway. The highway is open to single lane access while road crews continue cleaning up.

The Karangahake Gorge on State Highway 2 between Waihi and Paeroa is open to single lane access while road crews continue cleaning up. Stop/Go traffic control is in place and delays are to be expected.

Ms Boyt says the clean up is likely to continue for most of the week. “We are still asking drivers to take extreme care on the highways while we are clearing slips and reinstating access to state highways closed around the region due to the severe weather event earlier this week. Please drive to the conditions, and allow more time for your journey so that you can reach your destination safely.”

Ms Boyt says before starting their journey people should check with the NZTA's freephone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or 0800 44 44 49, or its website www.highwayinfo.govt.nz for up-to-the-minute info on road conditions.

ENDS

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