The NZ Transport Agency is advising that SH2 through the Waimana Gorge will remain closed as contractors continue working to clear a significant slip that occurred last Thursday.

This slip is located between Stanley Road and Fraser Road.

Bay of Plenty system manager Rob Campbell says NZTA had its contractors inspect the site over the weekend and this morning and found the hillside is very unstable.

“There is around 3000sqm of materials above the road that is still moving and will need to be removed by drilling into the hillside and then blasting the remaining materials.

“We expect to start drilling by Wednesday, however the weather plays a big part in what we are able to do and with the weather report forecasting more rain this may change,” says Campbell.

The NZTA will continue to provide updates via social media and the NZTA website and expect the road to be re-opened in around three weeks.

Further details will be provided end of this week.

The NZTA asks all motorists to use the alternative route and allow extra time for their journeys.

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