Rockfall on Manawatu Gorge – expect delays

Motorists are advised to take care and expect short delays after a small rock fall in the Manawatu Gorge this morning.

Road crews are currently on site to begin the clean-up of approximately 40 cubic metres of material slipped from the rock face.

“The Gorge is still open but we’ll be operating a stop/go traffic management system so the crew can carry out their assessment and clean-up work,” NZ Transport Agency acting highway manager Ross I’Anson says.

“We expect the clean-up to take the rest of the day. Variable messaging signs at Ashhurst and Woodville will let people know to expect delays, and will be updated when the slip has been cleared.

“We encourage people to plan ahead if they need to travel through the Gorge today. They can get updated information from the Transport Agency’s traffic and travel information section on its website, from the Transport Agency’s Central North Island Twitter account @NZTACNI and Facebook page, or by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)”

Mr I’Anson said that the rock fall netting installed at the end of last year worked well.

“Early assessments show that much of the rock fall has been contained by the netting, and has reduced the danger to road users. However the netting has sustained some damage, and the contractors will be making assessments on the repairs required for the netting and support structures.”

“We’d like to thank motorists for their patience and for taking care when they travel through the Gorge today,” Mr I’Anson says.

ENDS

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