Manawatu Gorge highway partially reopened

The lane closest to the slip site will remain closed, with concrete barriers and a catch fence to protect motorists. Photo / file

The highway through the Manawatu Gorge is on track to be partially reopened to traffic this weekend.

State Highway 3 has been closed at the gorge since being blocked by a slip on April 9.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said the gorge could be opened to one lane of traffic from tomorrow morning if conditions allow.

Regional journey manager Delaney Myers said the road would be open from 7am to 6pm only, and could close at short notice.

"Our crews are continuing to make great headway bringing down loose material from the slope. The more loose material they bring down, the more confidence we have that the rockface is becoming secure," Ms Myers said.

The lane closest to the slip site will remain closed, with concrete barriers and a catch fence to protect motorists.

The single lane access will be controlled by traffic lights at the slip site, with a spotter on duty who will flick all signals to red if there is movement on the slipface.

Ms Myers advised motorists to allow time to use the alternative route over Saddle Rd if needed.

NZME. hm