The highway linking the West Coast and Otago closed after 7 am this morning due to a rockfall on the Otago side.

NZ Transport Agency crews are working to clear the slip this morning with State Highway 6 south of Makarora, likely to be closed until mid-afternoon.

The Transport Agency will update the highway’s status at 3 pm or earlier if it reopens before then, says Mark Stewart, Transport Agency Maintenance Contract Manager. (See web link below)

There is no simple road alternative to the SH6 route linking Haast and Queenstown Lakes District.

• The detour would involve SH73 (Arthur’s Pass/ Otira) and the highways through the middle or SH1 along the eastern side of the South Island.
http://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/regions/13

• Information on road works and expected delays is available on the Transport Agency’s website www.highwayinfo.govt.nz
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