Work has begun on a permanent fix at the site of one of the largest slips on SH5 Napier-Taupō Road.
The road was reopened to traffic last week between 7am and 7pm and around the clock from Monday, after initially suffering extensive damage from Cyclone Gabrielle.
An initial slip between Te Pohue and Glengarry made the road impassable until a temporary bypass was constructed well clear of the slip.
Engineers have now completed the design for the long term solution and work began today.
Central North Island Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations Jaclyn Hankin says initially excavators will be onsite, at the bottom of the site, clearing fallen soil and other material.
“The design will then see the earth built back up, on a 40 degree angle, with rock making up the majority of the material to fill the slope.
“Plastic geogrid sheeting will also be used in the layering of the bank as retaining material. This is widely used in New Zealand and around the world to stabilise banks for these projects.
”It is testament to the commitment of our roading crews and engineers, who are working tirelessly to strengthen our roading network that we have reached this milestone” says Ms Hankin.
This site is one of a number of sites still damaged along the route and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency crews are working on a number already.
“Road users will notice changes regularly, as work moves forward at a number of sites. Many areas remain under temporary traffic management and lower speed restrictions. We thank you for your continued patience and understanding during this time.”
