7 Jul 2019

Waimana Gorge to remain closed after slip

9:30 pm on 7 July 2019

The Waimana Gorge in Eastern Bay of Plenty will remain closed as contractors clear a slip that came down on Thursday.

The slip, described by the Transport Agency as significant, is blocking State Highway 2 between Stanley and Fraser Roads.

Rob Campbell, the agency's Bay of Plenty system manager, said while there is not a large amount of material on the road, the hill side above it is very unstable and is likely to fall again.

"This means it is not safe for motorists or for us to put our men and machinery in to clear the road at this time."

Mr Campbell said they will look at options to stabilise the hillside over the next few days and hope to reopen the road later in the week.

The agency is asking motorists to use alternative routes and allow extra time for their journey.

A detour is available via Whakatane, Ohope and Wainui.