Heavy rain has de-stabilised the large slips, meaning it is now unsafe for our contractors to continue clearing work through SH2 Waioweka Gorge. 

With weather set to worsen over the day, crews will take a pause, rest, and allow the weather to pass before reassessing the site and resuming clearing work once safe to do so. 

State Highway 35 (SH35) remains open however it is not a reliable detour route while weather is severe. 

SH2 south of Gisborne and SH5 remain open if people must travel. Additional crews are on standby to respond to any incidents on the detour routes.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is urging drivers to allow extra time for their journeys and drive to the conditions.

Heavy rainfall can cause hazards such as fallen trees and branches, slips and erosion, flooding and surface water across the road and pavement failures.

It’s important that people increase following distances, reduce speed if conditions deteriorate, turn headlights on, even during daytime rain and be alert for the unexpected - you don’t always know what’s around the next corner.

Where possible, people are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain.