Travellers through Waioeka Gorge on Friday got a close look as slips fell over the highway. Some people were airlifted out. Video / Fire and Emergency NZ | Joss Ruifrok
After weeks of severe rainfall and multiple slips causing extensive damage to State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge, one lane will reopen to the public tomorrow.
Three weeks of intensive work have led to a breakthrough in repairs and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has confirmed thatone lane, “under piloted convoy conditions”, will open for “essential travel only”.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said NZTA and its contractors have been working “incredibly hard” to re-establish the vital connection between Ōpōtiki (Eastern Bay of Plenty) and Matawai (Tairāwhiti).
NZTA has been working on both ends of the gorge, clearing massive slips, blocked culverts and widespread debris at 40 sites, including eight sites with severe damage.
“It’s difficult to overstate how big the task has been for the crews on the ground,” Bishop said.
He said it’s “encouraging news” for one lane to reopen, but there are still “important things” for locals to keep in mind.
“While geotechnical investigations have confirmed that the road is safe, it’s still an active worksite, people should only travel if they must and be prepared for the road to close at short notice if weather conditions or risk assessments change.”
There have been multiple slips along State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge. Photo / NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
Bishop said restoring access is important, but doing it safely is critical.
It’s a “vulnerable route” which NZTA is actively monitoring for further slip movement.
“Crews will remain working on the other side of the road, clearing the remaining debris, improving drainage and opening culverts to reduce the risk of further issues.”
Bishop said he expects this stretch of SH2 to remain a worksite for some time.
“People should travel with extreme care and be mindful of workers on the road. Give them a friendly wave as you travel through.”
A major slip on the Ōpōtiki side of the Waioweka Gorge following heavy rain in January 2026. Photo / NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
Motorists planning to join the convoy are advised to allow plenty of extra time to get to their departure point and convoys will leave “promptly on schedule”.
Across the 37km stretch of the gorge, convoys will operate in a single direction, three times daily for each direction. Pilot vehicles will control the convoy speed.
The Gisborne start point at the Historic Tauranga Bridge departs promptly at the following times:
7.00am, 11.00am and 5.00pm
The Ōpōtiki-bound start point is in Matawai at Te Wera Road intersection.
