Alternative to Manawatu Gorge closed by slip

A large slip is covering the west-bound lane of the Pahiatua track, the main alternative route to the closed Manawatu Gorge.

Police say mud and water is covering the road, which crosses the Tararua Range between the Manawatu and Wairarapa, and council crew are this morning working to clear the road.

Motorists should exercise caution when travelling on this road and drive to the conditions, police say.

The slip follows an announcement from NZTA the Manawatu Gorge -which has suffered a series of slips - will likely be closed until early next year while work to clear debris is completed.

- Herald Online