Storm repairs to delay motorists

While weather conditions were forecast to improve over the weekend and into next week, the clean-up work was likely to continue for some time.

Motorists using Hawke's Bay highways can expect delays for some time as New Zealand Transport Agency contractors carry out what journey manager for Napier Oliver Postings described as "post-storm clean-ups".

The first clean-up crews were called into action on Wednesday and have continued to clear a series of slips and drop-outs along both SH5 between Napier and Taupo and SH2 north to Wairoa.

Both highways had been closed off in the early hours of Thursday, and while SH5 had re-opened by 8.30am with motorists advised several sections were down to one lane and extreme caution was required, SH2 remained closed throughout the day.

Mr Postings said motorists seeking the latest highway condition updates should visit www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic

As well as stretches of surface flooding and slips along sections of the Napier-Wairoa highway, there had been road subsidence around the Mohaka River viaduct.

While weather conditions were forecast to improve over the weekend and into next week, the clean-up work was likely to continue for some time.

"Motorists can expect to see a large number of works occurring on the highways as crews clean up," Mr Postings said.

The subsidence at Mohaka meant the stretch would remain as a single lane for some time until it was repaired.

A priority Give Way system would be put in place.

Although SH2 from Napier to Dannevirke had escaped rain damage, there would be speed restrictions in place at four sites.

Tree felling is under way around Tapairu Rd South near Waipawa and stop/go signalling will be in place with delays up to five minutes at some times.

Motorists are also advised to take care while driving past Te Aute College on Saturday where an event is taking place.

Napier Harriers are also staging a road race between Waiohiki and Korokipo on SH50 on Saturday afternoon and warning signs will be in place.

As well as slip clearance work on SH5, pavement repairs are being carried out around Dillons Hill and speed restrictions and stop/go signalling will be in place.

Motorists are also asked to be on the lookout for logging trucks entering and leaving the highway on Rukumoana Rd near Te Pohue.

Speed restrictions will be in place.