Piloted convoys will travel three times daily in each direction across State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge from tomorrow in a breakthrough weeks after heavy rain closed the key route between Gisborne and Ōpōtiki.
Extreme weather on January 16 that dumped 322mm of rain in 48 hours — double the area’s January average — triggered dozens of slips, washed out sections of road and forced more than 40 stranded people to be rescued by helicopter.
SH2 was closed after heavy rain triggered dozens of slips, leaving more than 40 people stranded. (Source: 1News)
On Sunday, the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said the Waioweka Gorge would re-open to one lane on Monday for essential travel only under piloted convoy conditions.
"Convoys will operate in a single direction, three times daily for each direction, across the 37km stretch of Gorge. Pilot vehicles will control the speed of the convoy," an NZTA statement read.
"Anyone planning to travel in the convoy is advised to allow plenty of extra time to get to the departure point. Convoys will be leaving on schedule."
Footage captures the moment a landslide surges across SH2 as torrential rain destabilises the hillside. (Source: Supplied)
Geotechnical investigations had confirmed the road was safe, but drivers should only travel if they must and should be prepared for the road to close at short notice if weather conditions or risk assessments change.
NZTA said the road was still a worksite, with crews working to improve drainage and open culverts.
"People should travel with extreme care, follow all instructions and be mindful of workers on the road."
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said it was difficult to overstate the enormity of the task for crews on the ground.
"Crews have been working from both ends of the gorge, clearing massive slips, blocked culverts and widespread debris at 40 sites, including eight sites with severe damage."
The convoys were "encouraging news" and Bishop thanked all crews working so hard to make it possible.
"Give them a friendly wave as you travel through."
Convoy details
The Gisborne-bound start point was at the Historic Tauranga Bridge, with convoys departing at 7am, 11am, and 5pm.
The Ōpōtiki-bound start point was in Matawai at the Te Wera Rd intersection, with convoys departing at 9am, 1pm and 7pm.
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