SH2 is now OPEN between Matawai and Waioweka (Waioweka Gorge) following slip clearance today. Please drive with caution.

This updates the information below.

SH2 Waimana Gorge is now OPEN.

SH2 Waioweka Gorge remains CLOSED for slip clearance.

This updates the information below.

Flooding has now closed Tāneatua Road, which was the suggested detour route for the SH2 Waimana Gorge closure. River levels are still rising here. 

For people wanting to get to Tāneatua township – access is via SH2 White Pine Bush Road.  

Road users needing to get to Ōpōtiki need to go via Ōhope.

For more local road information – go to the Whakatāne District Council Facebook page(external link)

On SH2 Waioweka Gorge,  NZTA contractors are working to clear 2 slips and hope to re-open the highway to 1 lane by 5pm today.

This updates the information below.

Wet weather is affected roads in the Eastern Bay of Plenty with State Highway 2 (SH2) CLOSED between Matawai and Waioweka (Waioweka Gorge) due to a slip and downed trees. There is no suitable detour. 

Contractors for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) are clearing the slip and the road is expected to reopen later this afternoon.

SH2 Waimana Gorge is also CLOSED between Tāneatua and Kutarere due to flooding. 

The detour for eastbound traffic, is as follows: 

Turn left onto Taneatua Road, continue onto Valley Road, right onto Gorge Road, right onto Ohope Road, continue onto Pohutakawa Road, continue onto Wainui Road, left onto SH2. Reverse for westbound traffic. 

Note this route is not suitable for HPMVs.

There is some risk that the detour route may also have to close due to the rising flood water in that area.  Road users are advised to drive with caution and delay travel if possible.