It was closed from 9am until 4pm today and yesterday, so a helicopter carrying a monsoon bucket could flush away soft soil and vegetation above the road.
One lane is now back open to traffic, however the NZ Transport Agency advises motorists to expect short delays tomorrow (Friday) as contractors finish minor works in the area.
Low cloud meant the helicopter couldn't be used on Wednesday as planned, however contractors used diggers to make good progress on three of the four areas of focus until it could be brought in.
The Transport Agency's Bay of Plenty highway manager Brett Gliddon said the important work will help reduce the risk of slips in the future, making the road safer for motorists travelling between Tauranga and Rotorua.
"Contractors successfully cleared three areas using diggers on Wednesday and the fourth, largest section was cleared today with the help of a helicopter," he said.
"Upwards of 5000 litres of water was dropped today, to clear soft soil and vegetation above the road."
Mr Gliddon said using the helicopter on the last area was the safest option for both contractors and the public.
"The last area was very large and we couldn't get the digger in to work underneath it," he said.
"Using the helicopter was the safest option."
The Transport Agency has apologised for any inconvenience and thanked motorists for their understanding while the safety works were carried out.
For real time information on highway conditions and incidents visit www.nzta.govt.nz call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or follow @nztawaibop on twitter.
For personalised information about driving conditions on their frequently used routes, motorists can check out and sign up to On The Move at www.onthemove.govt.nz.
