MEDIA RELEASE
9 October 2017 | SOUTHERN REGION
Access to Kaikoura - update after heavy rain over recent weekend, more to come
Heavy rain in Canterbury created several small slips on the two roads into Kaikoura yesterday and today (Monday), with
State Highway 1 south via Cheviot, closed this morning.
“State Highway 1 south of Kaikoura reopened after 11am today, however drivers should expect delays in this area as
several crews are on the road through the Hundalees north of Parnassus as well as between Oaro and Kaikoura clearing
rocks, small slips, and debris,” says North Canterbury Transport Infrastructure Recovery alliance Journey Manager Tresca
Forrester.
The highway south of Kaikoura would be closing tonight at 7 pm between Goose Bay and Peketa as per usual open hours ie
Friday through to Mondaydaytime only.
“The Kaikoura inland road, Route 70 between Waiau and Kaikoura, has remained open, although loose rocks and small slips
are also being worked on by crews through this area,” she says.
“We’re working hard to keep both roads open and access into Kaikoura overnight and throughout the next few days.” she
says.
Forecast heavy rain continues until Wednesday
“Both routes into Kaikoura remain fragile and subject to weather conditions. We have crews on around the clock,” says Ms
Forrester.
Kaikoura State Highway 1 south closes tonight for three days scheduled planned works, and crews will be keeping the Inland Route 70 open as much as possible.
“If you’re travelling to Kaikoura over the next few days, please drive to the conditions, expect delays and make sure
you’re aware of the road conditions before you go.”
How to stay up to date:
• The key traffic and travel source which provides up-to-date information on weather and road conditions is www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic
• Important information is also shared via the Transport Agency’s official Twitter and Facebook accounts listed
here https://www.nzta.govt.nz/contact-us/connect-with-us/
• Drivers can also call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49) to speak to the call centre team for traffic and travel
information.