Abseilers remove loose Gorge rock

The Saddle Rd detour near Ashhurst, following the closure of the Manawatu Gorge road for two weeks.

The NZ Transport Agency says abseilers have made promising inroads as they work to remove loose rock at the location of last Thursday's slip in the Manawatu Gorge.

Spokesman Delaney Myers says abseilers have been working to remove a mass of unstable rock that was exposed by the slip.

A large overhang was brought down by abseilers and work is continuing to remove more loose or unstable rock.

"We appreciate that every day the gorge is closed it creates disruption for thousands of people," Ms Myers said.

"We are working as quickly as possible to remove the loose rock to ensure motorists remain protected.

"We thank the public for their patience while we get this work done swiftly but safely. Cleaning up the dirt and rock is a small part of the job - ensuring the rockface is secure was always going to be the challenge."

Work on the $4.5 million Saddle Rd upgrade is under way, which means motorists will be passing through worksites with 30km/h speed limits.

"We urge everyone to follow these speed restrictions safely," Ms Myers said.