SH2 through Waioweka Gorge open with caution
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi | 20 Apr 2026 12:16pm | Bay of Plenty
UPDATE, 12:15pm:
Crews have made great progress clearing slip material across SH2 and the Waioweka Gorge is now OPEN, however people are urged to drive with caution.
Drivers should be prepared for the road to close at short notice if weather conditions change or risk assessments require it. The area remains an active worksite and is still vulnerable - normal road conditions should not be expected.
The latest state highway conditions can be checked on the NZTA Journey Planner, as well as real-time updates on Facebook
Update 10.30am:
It is expected that SH2 through the Waioweka Gorge will remain closed for the majority of the day as crews work to clear slip material.
If you need to travel today, plan ahead and use SH30/SH5.
NZTA thanks motorists for their understanding. The latest state highway conditions can be checked on the NZTA Journey Planner, as well as real-time updates on Facebook.
20 April - 7.30am:
Additional slips overnight have meant SH2 through the Waioweka Gorge is CLOSED.
The road will remain closed until it is safe enough for crews to clear.
NZTA thanks motorists for their understanding. The latest state highway conditions can be checked on the NZTA Journey Planner, as well as real-time updates on Facebook.
Another update will be provided when the road can re-open.
19 April:
Rainfall in the Waioweka Gorge has eased. Crews are actively clearing rockfalls and carrying out clean‑up works. Following a safety inspection, the road is now OPEN to traffic, however drive with caution as crews continue cleaning up.
The Gorge remains an active worksite and is still vulnerable. Drivers should not expect normal road conditions and should be prepared for the road to close at short notice should weather conditions deteriorate or risk assessments change.
The latest state highway conditions can be checked on the NZTA Journey Planner, as well as real-time updates on Facebook.
Saturday18 April:
SH2 Waioweka Gorge is now CLOSED due to forecast heavy rain.
With the ground still unstable and the Goldsmith Slip not yet fully cleared, keeping the Gorge closed is the safest option.
The Bay of Plenty (East of Whakatāne River) is under an Orange Heavy Rain Warning from 3am tomorrow (Sunday 19 April) through to 4pm.
The road will remain closed until the weather has passed and it has been inspected, which is expected to be tomorrow evening.
NZTA thanks motorists for their understanding. The latest state highway conditions can be checked on the NZTA Journey Planner, as well as real-time updates on Facebook.