Material has been cleared and State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge is OPEN. Motorists should allow extra time for delays, and with poor weather forecast, be prepared for short notice closures if conditions change. 

3.30pm

Crews are continuing to clear debris, however material is still coming down the slip face. At this stage, it is unlikely SH2 through the Waioweka Gorge will reopen today.

Residents and emergency services will be allowed through the closure for essential access and response, particularly ahead of the incoming Cyclone Vaianu.

People are urged to keep an eye on this website for up to date information.

10.00am

Due to the amount of material that has now come down and will need to be removed, the risk has been reassessed and to prioritise the safety of our people and motorists passing through, the decision has been made for State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge to remain closed until later today. 

People are urged to delay travel where possible or allow at least 3 hours of extra time for a long detour either via State Highway 35 or State Highway 5. NZTA crews will continue monitoring and maintaining the detour route to ensure it remains safe and accessible.

Further updates will be provided as soon as further risk assessments can safely continue.

Road users should take extra care in the region due to surface flooding in other areas around Rotorua and Eastern Bay of Plenty.

While SH35 is currently open, more wet weather means there is a chance that sections can close at short notice. 

8.30am

State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge is now OPEN. Motorists are urged to drive with care.

7.55am

State Highway 2 in the Waioweka Gorge is closed due to an unstable slip face. Water is flowing down the slip and over the road.

Contractors are on site, however motorists will need to take alternate routes until the road is safe to reopen.

People are urged to delay travel where possible or allow at least 3 hours of extra time for a long detour either via State Highway 35 or State Highway 5. NZTA crews will continue monitoring and maintaining the detour route to ensure it remains safe and accessible.

Further updates will be provided as soon as additional assessments can safely continue.

Road users should take extra care in the region due to surface flooding in other areas around Rotorua and Eastern Bay of Plenty.

While SH35 is currently open, more wet weather means there is a chance that sections can close at short notice.