Urgent repairs complete after tomo found in SH2, Bay of Plenty

The tomo, about the size of an A3 poster, that prompted urgent repairs to a Bay of Plenty highway today. Photo / Supplied

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency said shortly after midday that contractors would be carrying out the repairs this afternoon, warning of delays for motorists in the Otamarakau area.

The tomo formed in the westbound lane on the Waitahanui Stream Bridge between Waitahanui Lane and Otamarakau Valley Rd.

The tomo was repaired by 2.30pm.

A tomo is a shaft formed by water, limestone for volcanic rock and is sometimes referred to as a sinkhole.

Waka Kotahi regional manager of maintenance and operations Rob Campbell said a tomo was typically caused by groundwater eroding the soil and was more common at locations such as bridges due to nearby water sources.

Campbell said this tomo was "approximately the size of an A3 poster".

"Our contractors will be undertaking further investigation at the site to identify the circumstances for this particular tomo."

Delays of five to 10 minutes should be expected. Photo / NZME