Oropi Rd in Tauranga will stay closed for the immediate future after a large hole formed at the edge of the southbound lane.
However, by the end of today, a temporary solution will open the road between Cheyne Rd and Oropi Stream Bridge to one lane of traffic.
Further testing is required to determine a permanent repair and the council should have an idea on the timeframe to repair the road early next week.
![The hole on Oropi Rd. Photo / Supplied](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/AH4WCSXRUUW7A2PR53ZNUGQZXE.jpg?auth=fe069a688bf1b65e374a0563b1f6a47af6ea8f635903f1141240baefdfeb99ef&width=16&height=12&quality=70&smart=true)
In the meantime, traffic management will be in place to direct vehicles.
Tauranga City Council said in a statement that the sinkhole was caused by gradual erosion.
![Giant Sinkhole has opened up on Oropi Road. Photo / Andrew Warner.](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/37625E44RI6MSQYVRVWAWPEKTQ.jpg?auth=d9029ea59d4f007bae1c69cd6580f2c594a976cb4071cc85ecb8bb3da60b0435&width=16&height=11&quality=70&smart=true)
A geotechnical engineer will complete a site assessment today.
There is no impact to Bay of Plenty Regional Council regional or school bus runs.
Parents of children who use a private school bus service will need to check with the school for any disruptions.