Work to remove Waioeka Gorge slip well underway

Photo/Google Maps

The New Zealand Transport Agency says work to remove a slip on State Highway 2 between Opotiki and Gisborne is well under way with several trucks clearing the debris at both ends.

Approximately 1000m3 of debris fell across both lanes on Friday afternoon at the midway point of the Waioeka Gorge, but a further 3500m3 has come down since then.

Trucks and heavy machinery were used onsite yesterday on both sides of the slip when weather allowed.

Engineers have also been assessing the cause of the slip and will return again today.

It's an active slip so caution is needed while managing the site.

A slip which has closed part of State Highway 2 between Opotiki and Gisborne. Photo/Supplied

The NZ Transport Agency's regional director Parekawhia McLean said the volume of material and the extra rock removal that was required might mean the road cannot be safely opened until Thursday.

"All available resources will be used to get the road open as quickly as possible," she said.

"People can use State Highway 35 as an alternative route but this will add a considerable amount of time to a journey so allow extra time."

Opotiki District Council and Gisborne District Council have closed the old Motu Rd so it is not available as a detour.