Permanent Fix Underway on SH25 Opoutere to Hikuai

Work has started today on the damaged section of SH25 just south of McBeth Road on the Opoutere to Hikuai leg of this section of highway.

Work on the damaged area started this morning and the road will remain open while this work is done. However NZTA advise that road  closures may occur and the public is encouraged to stay of the road between 9:30am and 2:30pm each day. NZTA are saying those travelling during these work times may face delays of up to 30 minutes travelling through the work area. Repairs are estimated to take around 7 weeks. During this time a retaining wall will be constructed and when complete the road will reopen to full use. Currently it is restricted to light vehicles including cars towing trailers or caravans.

The road is an essential link for travellers along the eastern communities and or those coming to visit the Coromandel. Heavy trucks are currently forced to travel on SH25 via Thames and Coromandel to reach eastern towns and this repair will save travel time as they will once again be able to travel on this eastern section of SH25.

These roads have come under increasing pressure due to the collapse and closure of SH25A. A decision on repairs to this road is expected to be announced next month by NZTA.