Update 11.30am - 28 April:

State Highway 1 Mangamuka Gorge has reopened after a slip closed the road during heavy rain yesterday.

The slip was in a new area, not part of previously completed recovery works. Previous recovery work, including slip repairs and drainage improvements, held up well to the weekend’s wet weather.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) says engineers have been on site this morning to carry out assessments, prior to reopening.

There will be temporary speed limits in place and periods of stop/go traffic management while contractors continue to clean-up the highway. Please be patient, allow additional time for your journeys and treat our crews with kindness and respect.

NZTA thanks everyone for their patience during the closure and as our contractors continue to clean-up after the weekend’s weather.

Update 5.40pm - 27 April:

State Highway 1 Mangamuka Gorge will remain closed overnight.

The over slip is in a new area, not part of previously completed recovery works. Previous recovery work, including slip repairs and drainage improvements, have held up well.

Contractors have managed to clear a significant amount of slip material. They will continue to monitor the site overnight as there are still trees overhanging the road, and the team will be out first thing tomorrow to assess the trees under better light conditions. 

NZTA expects to provide an update on the closure tomorrow morning.

Our contractors are continuing to respond to a range of weather-related issues on the network, including slips, fallen trees, potholes and surface flooding. 

Please drive with care, allow extra time for your journeys and treat our contractors with kindness and respect, as they work to keep the state highway network open and safe.

People can continue to check the NZTA Journey Planner website for up-to-date information on the state highway network.

27 April - 10.43am:

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising State Highway 1 Mangamuka Gorge is closed due to a slip

The slip is expected to take most of the day to clear.

While people are currently able to detour via State Highway 10, river levels are high at Kaeo and contractors are monitoring.

Where possible, people are asked to delay unnecessary travel and, if they must travel, to expect the unexpected and remain alert.

If you must travel, slow down and maintain a greater following distance between your vehicle and the one in front. Be aware of branches and other debris you may not be able to see under the surface of flood waters.

Please be mindful of contractors who could be out clearing hazards off the road, and drive slowly through work sites.

People are encouraged to visit the Journey Planner website for the latest travel information, including any road closures.

Journey Planner(external link)