Rockfall after rain restricts road access into Kaikōura – Waiau/ Mt Lyford only road in overnight
The NZ Transport Agency is closing the State Highway 1 southern access into Kaikōura at 5 pm tonight after about 20
cubic metres of rock and soil fell near the highway this afternoon.
Traffic was safely diverted away from the rockfall between Rosy Morn and the Raramai Tunnel, but given the difficulties
of hearing and seeing rock falling in the dark, a decision has been made to close the road at 5 pm, says Tresca
Forrester, Network Operations Manager for the Transport Agency.
“The road into Kaikōura via Waiau and Mt Lyford, Route 70, will be open and from 5 pmtonight will be the only way in and
out of the town.”
The highway to the north of the town has stayed closed today for the second day in a row after heavy rain caused soil to
fill bunded areas with a small slip at Waipapa Bay yesterday, where the permanent road is still being constructed. It
will remain closed overnight also. “Although we have made progress clearing out those overflow areas to the north, the
area is now drying out after the soaking and some caution is required,” says Ms Forrester.
The next update for the State Highway 1 north and south routes to Kaikōura will be at9.30 am Friday, 15 June. Check this
link: http://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/regions/11
• Traffic between Picton and Christchurch should continue to use the Alternate Route via the Lewis pass and St Arnaud.
Thanks to all drivers for building in extra time and taking care in slippery conditions.
How to stay up to date:
For travellers between Christchurch and Picton check real time information:http://www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/kaikoura-earthquake-response/plan-your-journey/
Important information is also shared via the Transport Agency’s official Twitter andFacebook 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.
Check the MetService: http://www.metservice.com/warnings/severe-weather-warnings for the latest severe weather warning and watches.