Key Takeaways
- State Highway 2 through the Waioeka Gorge is expected to remain closed for several weeks due to extensive damage caused by severe rainfall and multiple slips.
- The area experienced 322mm of rain in 48 hours, double the average for January, causing widespread debris flows and blocking culverts.
- Over 40 people were airlifted to safety after being cut off by the slips, and crews are working to clear smaller slips and gain access to larger areas of damage.
- Geotechnical investigations and drone surveys have revealed a complex situation, with up to 40 slips in total, including four to eight larger slips.
- Motorists are urged to delay travel or allow extra time for long detours via State Highway 35 or State Highway 5.
Introduction to the Situation
The Waioeka Gorge, a scenic and vital transportation route, has been severely impacted by recent severe rainfall, resulting in the closure of State Highway 2. The area experienced an unprecedented 322mm of rain in just 48 hours, which is double the average rainfall for the entire month of January. This excessive rainfall overwhelmed and blocked culverts, triggering widespread debris flows across the road and causing extensive damage. As a result, SH2 was closed in both directions on Friday morning, leaving many travelers stranded and in need of assistance.
The Extent of the Damage
The situation is far more complex than initially thought, with geotechnical investigations and drone surveys revealing a significant amount of damage. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has reported that there are two significant slip sites at either end of the gorge, which have now been declared safe to begin work on. However, the sheer number of slips and continuing amount of debris falling mean that this is a challenging situation. Initial estimates indicate up to 40 slips in total, including four to eight larger slips, which will require careful and thorough assessment and repair.
Response and Recovery Efforts
NZTA crews have been working tirelessly over the weekend to clear smaller slips and gain access to larger areas of damage. However, the safety of the crews will always be the top priority, and the agency is warning that reopening the road safely will likely take a few weeks. NZTA Waikato and Bay of Plenty manager for maintenance and operations, Roger Brady, emphasized that the damage is significant and that the agency wants to be upfront about the complexity of the situation. "We want to be upfront that this is not something we can fix in a few days," he said. "Our crews are doing everything they safely can, but the sheer number of slips and continuing amount of debris falling mean this is a complex and challenging situation."
Impact on Travelers
The closure of State Highway 2 will have a significant impact on travelers, with motorists urged to delay travel if possible or allow extra time for long detours via State Highway 35 or State Highway 5. NZTA will continue to monitor and maintain the detour route to ensure it remains safe and accessible. Further updates will be provided once additional assessments can be safely carried out. In the meantime, travelers are advised to plan ahead and check for updates before embarking on their journey. The agency is working to provide alternative routes and ensure that travelers can reach their destinations safely, but it is essential to be patient and flexible in the face of this unexpected disruption.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the closure of State Highway 2 through the Waioeka Gorge is a significant disruption to transportation in the region, and it will take several weeks to repair the damage. The NZTA is working diligently to assess the situation, clear debris, and repair the road, but the safety of the crews and travelers will always be the top priority. As the situation continues to unfold, travelers are advised to stay informed and plan ahead, and the agency will provide regular updates on the progress of the repair work. With patience and cooperation, the road will be reopened safely, and travelers will once again be able to enjoy the scenic route through the Waioeka Gorge.
