Western Bay of Plenty District Council has confirmed Poripori Road will be closed to through traffic for around eight weeks while essential works are carried out to repair two significant roadside slips.
The Council says the slips developed in 2023 during Cyclone Gabrielle and have continued to deteriorate over time. They are now affecting the stability and integrity of the road.
The closure will be in place between Kumikumi Road and Tebbutt Road from 11 May to 3 July, weather dependent.
The larger slip, located approximately 600m south of Tebbutt Road, will require a full 24/7 closure while a mechanically stabilised earth wall and associated drainage and structural works are completed.
Residents will still be able to access their properties from either side of the site, however there will be no through access, Council said.
“A second slip, located around 600m from the SH29 intersection, will be repaired under Stop/Go traffic management. This work includes minor earthworks, stormwater upgrades, kerb and channel installation, and chipseal surfacing, with delays expected,” Council stated.
Detours will be in place via State Highway 29, Cambridge Road, State Highway 2, Wairoa Road and Crawford Road.
The works will be delivered by J Swap Contractors Ltd on behalf of Western Bay of Plenty District Council, with construction taking place Monday to Friday between 6am and 6pm.
Council’s Director Transportation Calum McLean says the closure is necessary to complete the work safely and efficiently.
“This is a complex slip repair project, and a full closure is the safest and quickest way to complete the work,” he says.
“We understand this will impact travel in the area, particularly for those who live on and use Poripori Road regularly, and we appreciate people’s patience while we carry out these essential repairs.”
For more information and updates, visit yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz/poripori-road-slip-repairs.
