State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge was closed twice yesterday due to a slip overnight on Wednesday.

The gorge was closed early yesterday morning due to the slip and later reopened after being cleared.

However, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said in an updated statement that due to the amount of material that had come down and need to be removed, the decision was been made for the road to remain closed until later yesterday.

Drivers were urged to delay travel where possible or allow extra time for a long detour either via State Highway 35 or State Highway 5 yesterday.

NZTA crews would continue monitoring and maintaining the detour route to ensure it remained safe and accessible, NZ Transport said, adding that further updates would be provided as soon as further risk assessments could safely continue.

Road users were urged to take extra care in the region due to surface flooding in other areas around Rotorua and Eastern Bay.

“While SH35 is currently open, more wet weather means there is a chance that sections can close at short notice.

“People are urged to keep an eye on the NZTA Journey Planner for up to date,” NZ Transport Agency said.

For information: Journey planner | NZTA Journey Planner.