Overnight closures of State Highway 3 through Awakino Gorge have finished four nights earlier than planned after favourable weather and strong progress by road workers on site.

The road was originally scheduled to close for 9 nights, from 27 October to 5 November, so anchors could be installed for the retaining wall at the major slip site.

The work requiring full closure of the road has been completed in 5 nights, meaning no further overnight closures are required for this stage.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Maintenance and Operations Area Manager Liesl Dawson says getting the work done as quickly as possible and minimising disruption has been the priority.

“Work will continue on the retaining wall to accommodate the new lane. SH3 will remain open under stop/go traffic management while this work continues.

There will continue to be stop/go traffic management in place until the road is restored to two lanes.

“This road is a crucial connection between Taranaki and Waikato – the commuters, communities, freight industry and other road users have been incredibly patient over the past few months – and we’re nearly there.”

The project remains on track for two-lane access through the gorge to be restored by mid-December, subject to weather and site conditions.

People travelling through the gorge should continue to plan ahead, follow all traffic management and check this website before travelling.