State Highway 29 Ruahihi Bluffs safety works across Kaimai Range done

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi contractors also undertook resurfacing works while SH29 was closed. Photo / NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

Resilience work on the Ruahihi Bluffs along State Highway 29 is now complete.

Contractors have removed large loose rocks and installed additional reinforcement along the bluffs to reduce the risk of slips and rockfalls, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said in a post on its Bay of Plenty and Waikato Facebook page on Monday.

“This work aims to make the highway safer and more resilient for the thousands of people who travel over the Kaimai Range each day.

“Because of the high‑risk nature of the operation, the highway needed to be fully closed while crews worked on the steep terrain."

The road closures took place from 8pm to 3.30am for five nights towards the end of February.

NZTA acknowledged the disruption that closures can cause and thanked road users for their patience and co-operation.

The agency also recognised the crews for their skill and hard work in difficult conditions.

Rock-scaling works were completed at Ruahihi Bluffs on State Highway 29 near Tauranga. Photo / NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

“During the closure, maintenance teams took the opportunity to complete a range of routine improvements along the route. This included asphalt repairs, drainage upgrades, refreshed road markings and surface improvements at several locations.

“These upgrades are expected to improve safety and reliability for motorists travelling across the Kaimai Range.”