BOP road reopened after slip

A slip has closed State Highway 35 between Maraenui and Omaio. Photo/File

UPDATE: State Highway 35 has reopened between Maraenui and Omaio, following an earlier slip on the western side of the Motu Bridge.

Contractors were able to clear the road earlier than expected, however work is still progressing on smaller slips on the bluffs and motorists are advised to expect delays.

EARLIER:

A slip has closed part of State Highway 35 in the Bay of Plenty.

A substantial slip on the western side of the Motu Bridge has blocked the road between Maraenui and Omaio, police said.

Large boulders have fallen onto the highway and heavy machinery will be needed to clear them.

Slip closes State Highway 35 in Motu Bluffs - State Highway 35 has been closed between Maraenui and Omaio follo... https://t.co/HYkKWPTbAU

— NZP Media (@NZPoliceMedia) November 16, 2016

Contractors are on their way but it may be some time until the road is cleared and made safe.

The road will be closed until further notice.

Anyone planning to use the route is encouraged to consider delaying their travel plans.

To check if the road has reopened before heading out, go to www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic