Bay of Plenty slip closes State Highway 2 at Waiotahe

A slip that fell on three vehicles has blocked State Highway 2 in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

The highway between Kutarere and Ōpōtiki is expected to remain closed overnight and tomorrow as incoming weather adds to safety concerns, the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi says.

A police spokesman said the slip came down on Waiotahe Beach Rd (SH2) between Pōhutukawa Drive and Parkinsons Rd.

Diversions were in place at the Paerata Ridge Rd and Verralls Rd intersections and motorists were advised to take an alternate route while contractors worked to clear the road.

Three vehicles, a ute and two cars were struck by the slip, he said.

A Hato Hone St John spokeswoman said one person in a minor condition was assessed and treated.

One ambulance, two rapid response units and one operations manager were sent to the scene.

The slip was covering both lanes.

A New Zealand Transport Agency spokeswoman said contractors were at the slip and had started clearing.

“Due to incoming weather and other safety concerns SH2 will remain closed between Waiotahi Valley Back Rd and Paerata Ridge for slip clearance tonight and throughout tomorrow, Tuesday.”

Detour details

For east bound traffic: Right on to Waiotahi Valley Back Rd, Verrall Rd, left at Paerata Ridge Rd before rejoining SH2. Westbound traffic in reverse.

The detour was not suitable for heavy vehicles.