The NZ Transport Agency advises State Highway 30 Ongaroto Road will be closed during the day from 28 September to 8 October (with the exception of Sunday 4 October) at Ongaroto Bluffs while the cliff face is inspected and assessed.

This closure may be extended overnight if any unsafe rocks or other hazards cannot be removed during the day.

A team of geotechnical specialists will abseil down the cliff face to carry out an inspection. A number of white pine trees will be removed, as will any loose or dangerous rocks that are identified and can be safely removed. This work is expected to take 10 days.

While the geotechnical team is working on the cliff, SH30 will be closed to all traffic, as will the Waikato River Trail alongside the road. Traffic will be diverted via State Highway 32 and State Highway 1 through Tokoroa.

Unfortunately there is no detour available for cyclists, given the nature of the worksite and the surrounding area. Cyclists would need to use the detour via Tokoroa, or local roads south of the river.

Work will begin on Monday 28 September with a karakia and blessing that morning. The road closure will start around midday and run through to 5pm that day. Closures will start at 7am and finish at 5pm on the other working days through until Thursday 8 October.

No work will be done on Sunday 4 October and the road will be fully open.

If any unsafe rocks or other hazards are identified on the cliff face and cannot be removed the same day, the road may need to remain closed overnight or for an extended period.