Waioweka Gorge SH2: Fresh slip at Goldsmith site delays reopening

There have been multiple slips along State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge. Photo / NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

More material has fallen on State Highway 2 through Waioweka Gorge, as roading crews work to clear multiple slip sites along the highway.

In January, the area experienced a massive 322mm of rain in just 48 hours, double the area’s average for the month.

The rain overwhelmed and blocked culverts and triggered widespread debris flows across the road.

As a result, SH2 was reported closed in both directions on Friday, January 16. More than 40 people needed to be airlifted to safety after being cut off by the slips.

For the past two weeks, contractors have been working to clear and stabilise slips and debris through the gorge in an attempt to enable controlled access, an NZTA spokesperson told SunLive today.

“Unfortunately, more material has fallen from the Goldsmith slip, making it unsafe to allow convoy traffic through.

“The scale of the task has been immense. Crews have been clearing massive slips, blocked culverts and widespread debris across 40 sites, including eight sites with severe damage.

“We know this delay is frustrating for people wanting to travel between Ōpōtiki and Matawai. Restoring access matters, but doing it safely is critical.”

NZTA said the Goldsmith slip remained unstable and before controlled access could be allowed, more loose material needed to come down.

“Our next step is to remove the remaining material so we can reopen the route under controlled conditions. We appreciate everyone’s understanding as we work to make this route safe.”