Hamilton City Council is undertaking emergency investigations and repair planning on Gordonton Road, between Puketaha Road and Wairere Drive, after a tomo (sinkhole) re-emerged, indicating continued deterioration of an underground stormwater pipe.

Issues with the pipe were first identified in December 2025. At that time, Council carried out temporary works designed to manage the immediate risk, while keeping the road open for traffic and allowing time for planning a permanent, long-term repair solution.

However, heavy rain events over summer placed additional pressure on the underground network, accelerating damage to the pipe and compromising the effectiveness of the temporary solution quicker than anticipated. To ensure the safety of road users, the pipe now requires further urgent repairs.

Crews are currently carrying out detailed underground surveys to fully understand the extent of the damage, and deliver a durable, long-term fix, likely involving a partial or full underground pipe replacement.

“We know this disruption is frustrating, especially for people who rely on Gordonton Road every day as part of their travel journeys,” says Kevin Strongman, Hamilton City Council’s General Manager of Infrastructure and Assets.

“Recent temporary works were appropriate to stabilise the situation and reduce immediate risk, but the wet conditions since then have worsened the damage to the underlying pipe. Further investigation has confirmed we now need to take urgent action to protect public safety.”

For drivers on Gordonton Road

Gordonton Road remains open with traffic controlled by temporary traffic signals. One lane is operating between Puketaha Road and Wairere Drive, allowing traffic to travel in both directions one way at a time. Delays are expected, and motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes where possible.

Due to the significant risk to public safety, the site cannot be left unattended while investigations and repair planning continue. Temporary traffic management will remain in place until repairs are completed, which at this stage, is expected to be until the end of May.

In the event of heavy rainfall, Gordonton Road may need to close at short notice, as the pipe’s restricted capacity could lead to flooding. Strongman thanks the community for their patience and cooperation while this essential work is carried out.

Further updates will be provided via hamilton.govt.nz/roadworks and Antenno as more information becomes available.

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