NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is continuing work on assessing and clearing slips that have closed State Highway 6 through the Lower Buller Gorge between Inangahua Junction and Westport.

The stretch of highway, between Inangahua and the cross roads where State Highways 6 and 67 meet, remains closed, with a further update due today at 5pm when a timeline for reopening is expected is to be available.

Multiple slips occurred on the stretch of highway after heavy rain earlier in the week. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes via Reefton, Greymouth and the Great Coast Road.

The team has now managed to fully assess the impacts to the road, and have identified a number of large debris flows, scour and rockfall that need to be cleared and made safe.

There has not been any damage to the road at this stage, but ongoing impacts will be monitored until water is redirected back into waterways, as well as assessing slope stability as the hillsides dry and stabilise.

Work is underway to clear slips that have closed State Highway 6.