18 April 2018 | SOUTHERN REGION

Extension of closure for SH1 south of Kaikōura – all day Wednesday and Thursday to 3 pm

High winds have reduced the time available for abseiling and rock removal work needed on the south side of Kaikōura today, says the NZ Transport Agency. The highway is closed south of the town today for essential safety work in the lead-in to being fully open round the clock from 30 April.

“As a result of the high winds today, our crews were restricted with some activities and will need to continue this work tomorrow. We will keep the highway closed until 3 pm Thursday,” says North Canterbury Transport Infrastructure Recovery (NCTIR) Network Operations Manager Tresca Forrester.

“Some work was able to be completed today which was not affected by the high winds.”

Local convoys will operate tonight and in the morning to assist residents to leave and return to their homes.

“We understand this is frustrating for road users but it is important to have the highway as safe as possible heading into winter and the round the clock open hours both sides of the town,” says Ms Forrester.

For background on this project:

http://www.nzta.govt.nz/media-releases/planned-one-day-closure-for-sh1-south-of-kaikoura-in-mid-april-delays-same-day-hurunui-bridge/

Anyone travelling between Picton and Christchurch on Thursday, 19 April is advised to use the alternate route via Lewis Pass. For travel south of Kaikōura, the Inland Road via Waiau (Route 70) can be used.

For more information on the road closure as it is announced please visit:www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/kaikoura-earthquake-response/planned-closures/

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