People who use the Ahaura Bridge northeast of Greymouth overnight will need to take a detour for two nights next week, says the NZ Transport Agency.

“The bridge on SH7 is being replaced with a new bridge, but until it is completed and open, the existing bridge‘s deck still requires regular maintenance, particularly with winter coming,” says NZTA maintenance contract manager Moira Whinham.

Running planks will be replaced to ensure safety for the cold months ahead. The work is not weather dependent as no sealing is required.

The two nights are Wednesday and Thursday, 6 and 7 May, from 10pm each night to 6am the following day.

Detour via Blackball

The detour route, on the north side of the Grey River, between Stillwater and Ikamatua, is via Blackball i.e. the Taylorville-Blackball Road and the Atarau Road. Both will be well signposted at each end.

Whinham thanked all drivers for taking care and slowing down on the detour route.

Updates here: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/roadworks/298443