Motorists urged to remain cautious around gorge

The New Zealand Transport Agency is urging motorists to remain vigilant while driving through the Manawatu Gorge this Labour Weekend.

State highways manager David McGonigal said repair work on the massive slips, which closed the gorge 13 months ago, is virtually complete.

"But we're expecting higher traffic volumes over Labour Weekend. We ask drivers to keep their eyes peeled for signs in case there are any delays or diversions. We also ask that drivers keep a bit of extra travel time up their sleeves as the road can get pretty busy, particularly on the Monday afternoon as everyone heads back home."

The road is now open to two lanes with a couple of one-lane sections controlled by traffic signals. NZTA crews are continuing to carry out repairs on the alternative routes; the Saddle Rd and the Pahiatua Track, and want to hand control back to the council in the near future.

While the gorge was closed, the alternative routes were handling 5000 vehicles a day, compared with the usual 700 a day.

In the gorge itself, Mr McGonigal said rock bolting work - drilling steel bolts into the hillside to help secure the slope - was finished. The slope remains wrapped in netting to control minor rock spills and a rockfall fence is being erected. This is expected to be finished in two to three weeks.

Mr McGonigal said the work crews really appreciate the patience and courtesy shown by drivers as it keeps them safe.

"We're pleased with the progress the troops have made and we reckon the gorge will be back to full, free-flowing function by the end of November at the latest."

The final road surface will be laid down in November when the weather is more settled.

Meanwhile, investigations into options for an alternative route upgrade are continuing and should be completed by the end of the year. Construction is expected to be carried out next year.