Road closures used to ensure worker safety

‘‘The Remutaka Hill road is steep, narrow and winding, which makes it a challenging environment to work in.’’

Mark Owen Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency regional manager maintenance and operations

State Highway 2 over the Remutaka Hill will be closed for 10 nights over a two-week period in May to allow crews to safely complete essential maintenance and upgrade a major culvert.

The closures will be in place between 9pm and 4am from Sunday, May 15, to Thursday, May 19 (finishing 4am Friday, May 20), and then again from Sunday, May 22, to Thursday, May 26 (finishing 4am Friday, May 27).

Waka Kotahi NZ NZ Transport Agency regional manager maintenance and operations Mark Owen says overnight road closures enable crews to upgrade the culvert and undertake essential maintenance and slip prevention works for the safety of all road users.

‘‘The Remutaka Hill road is steep, narrow and winding, which makes it a challenging environment to work in. Closing the road for maintenance at night increases safety for road workers and motorists, significantly reduces the number of Stop/Go works at other times and enables better quality maintenance work.’’

Motorists are advised to plan ahead.

An escorted vehicle service will be available for shift workers and others with light vehicles who have no option but to use the road during these closures.

Bookings are essential because numbers are limited to ensure the safety of those travelling and of the road workers. Bookings can be made by emailing customer@ capitaljourneys.co.nz before

Friday, May 13.

Access will be available for emergency services throughout the closures and all work will adhere to the relevant Covid-19 health and safety protocols to keep workers and road users safe.

Poor weather or Covid-19 restrictions may result in cancellation or postponement, possibly at short notice.