The NZ Transport Agency is advising that SH2 through the Waimana Gorge is expected to re-open to motorists next week.

Bay of Plenty system manager Rob Campbell says contractors have made great progress with around 500m3 of material removed from the site over the past few days. Further blasting is needed to remove the rest of the material threatening to fall on the road, but 16 out of the 23 holes needed have been drilled and completed on the hillside.

“The rest of the drilling will be finished this week and then we can do the final blasting before re-opening next week,” says Campbell.

The detour remains via Whakatane, Ohope and Wainui and is clearly signposted.