SH25 Hikuai to Opoutere open this week

The temporary track around the underslip coped well with weekend traffic. Photo / Waka Kotahi

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises that State Highway 25 between Hikuai and Opoutere is open to one lane this week, during daytime and night-time hours, and will remain open providing it’s safe.

Travel through the site will be under stop/go traffic management with the potential for periods of stop/stop or full closure for maintenance on the temporary pavement.

“The surface of the temporary track coped better than expected with the increased traffic volumes over the weekend, so it’s safe for the road to remain open this week unless there’s deterioration,” says Cara Lauder, Waikato system manager for Waka Kotahi.

The temporary track around the underslip coped well with weekend traffic.

“Two geotech drill rigs are on site today to enable core samples to be collected from the underslip, which will inform the best way forward for a permanent fix of the road.

“If it’s detected that the underslip is getting worse – the road may close again without notice while remedial measures are investigated,” says Ms Lauder.

Waka Kotahi reminds road users that contractors are on site working to make the road safe.

“Please respect our road workers. They’re doing everything they can to guide people safely through, while repairs are ongoing,” says Ms Lauder.

People are urged to check the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner before they travel, and be prepared that we may have to close the road at any point if there is additional cracking or damage.

Geotech rigs are on site today. Photo / Waka Kotahi

Keep up to date:

• Keep an eye on our project webpage.
• Check out the frequently asked questions.
• Check road and weather conditions on our website: Journey Planner.
• Follow our regional Facebook page - Waikato and the Bay of Plenty: Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Waikato Bop.
• For local roads, visit the Thames Coromandel District Council Facebook page or website.