Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency crews will rebuilding the highway, at the same time as logging contractors are felling trees, on the inland Rakaia Gorge Road, SH77, this week to the end of October, weekdays.

To do this work safely, the highway at Windwhistle, between Leaches Road and the Rakaia Gorge Bridge (see map below) will be closed 8 am to 5 pm, opening at the top of each hour. People need to anticipate up to an hour’s delay west of Windwhistle.

“We know this will be inconvenient for drivers and encourage everyone to plan their trips around the openings if possible,” says Jessica McFarlane, Network Manager for Waka Kotahi.

The road will be closed in both directions although emergency vehicles will be accommodated as quickly as possible. Most of the trees being removed are invasive wilding pines which are shading the highway.

Updates here: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/roadclosures/401644

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey. Keep up to date with:

· Traffic updates: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic

• Facebook: facebook.com/NZTASouthIsland
• Twitter Canterbury/West Coast: twitter.com/WakaKotahiCWC
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz
• Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)

We have a vision of zero deaths and serious injuries on New Zealand roads. Learn more about:

· Road to Zero – our plan to achieve this vision

· Our vision – video explaining Road to Zero and what we’re trying to achieve

• What Waka Kotahi is doing to support Road to Zero

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