Getting through to Tutira, Napier

FRAGILE: This dropout in the Waikare Gorge is typical of the widespread damage on SH2 between Wairoa and Napier. Picture supplied

Construction has begun on the pier for a Bailey bridge in the Waikare Gorge which will temporarily replace what was washed away during Cyclone Gabrielle. 
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency says the much-anticipated work will enable people to access Tūtira by the middle of next month.  
SH2 from Tangoio to Tūtira is open to residents, stock movements and essential vehicles only at specified times and with extensive traffic management in place.
Waka Kotahi regional manager of maintenance and operations Jaclyn Hankin says a huge effort has gone into getting to this point.
“A big thank you to our contractors Higgins who are leading the work on the ground, and to WSP who have designed the Bailey bridge.
A karakia took place last Monday, with representatives from Ngāti Pāhauwera and Maungaharuru Tangitū Trust leading the blessing on each side of the Waikari River. 
Ms Hankin said access between Wairoa and Napier is expected to be restored by the end of May, depending on weather, with some time and vehicle restrictions likely to be in place.  
Between Wairoa and Bay View there are 98 sites to repair, and the majority of these are underslips or dropouts. There are 23 sites where a lane is impacted. 
There is significant damage across Devil’s Elbow and White Pine Bush, and Waka Kotahi is still clearing slip material.
On State Highway 38, the section from Tuai to Aniwaniwa Falls has reopened to general traffic.
Since mid-March, the road 
has been open from Wairoa to 
Tuai. Work has continued on installing safety barriers and clearing slips and access is now complete to Aniwaniwa 
Falls.
There will still be temporary traffic management in place from Wairoa to Aniwaniwa Falls and motorists are asked to follow the temporary speed limits and instructions from road workers. 
SH38 was significantly impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle. 
The special purpose road that continues towards the Bay of Plenty from Aniwaniwa Falls needs further repairs before it can reopen. 
While the immediate response to the cylone is still being prioritised, Waka Kotahi staff are addressing the need for an urgent long-term recovery process, using a region-specific approach. 
‘We’ve started some early thinking on how this will work, acknowledging that collaboration with local government, iwi, communities and partners is critical,” Ms Hankin said. 
Drivers are still being urged to check Journey Planner before trips as roads are vulnerable to closures at short notice in wet weather, and repair works may cause delays and road closures at times.