Work will begin later this month on clearing a large slip that has prevented through-access on Motu road since mid-November.

The slip occurred near the Ōpōtiki district boundary, between Papamoa Hill and Whitikau Road (around the 35-kilometre mark), and was significant, stretching around 100 metres from head to toe with channels through the road bench. The road has been closed in both directions since.

Ōpōtiki District Council asset manager Jessica Wiseman said in the early stages, the site was too unstable for any clearing works –the road bench appeared to be gone, and any repairs were likely to be large-scale and require careful planning before any work to clear could begin.

“During this period council continued to monitor the slip’s movement, and the road has remained closed while ongoing investigation works were carried out and initial investigation reports to council provided several early options, but all were complex, requiring time, site stability and funding.

“We knew back then that this wasn’t going to be a straightforward clear and repair situation and during the seven months since the slip our team have worked hard to navigate the testing and investigations phase through to securing funding, and in May 2026 received approval of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi funding to enable the repair work to progress,” Wiseman said.

Council staff and geotechnical specialists have reviewed the results from drilling at the main slip site and are finalising the work plan.

Subject to weather, the aim is to have machines on the ground by July 20.

Motu Road usually carries around 35 vehicles a day and is an important alternative route, providing resilience access between the Ōpōtiki and Gisborne districts.

“We know how important this road is for the small communities on either side of the slip, for hunters and walkers, and of course for those who cycle the route or are heading to the start of the Pakihi Track.

“We appreciate the impact this has had for locals and businesses, and we cannot over emphasise the appreciation we have for the ongoing patience and understanding the community has shown. We are going to have to lean on that once more; now that we are moving into the active work phase,” Wiseman said.

“Once works begin, the site will be an active construction area and remain fully closed to the public at all times, including outside working hours. This is due to the safety risks associated with earthworks and ground stability. Our message is to not enter the site under any circumstances during this time.

“We recognise this route is a key lifeline connection between our district and Gisborne, and our rural communities, and we know how challenging this closure has been. We are working to progress the repairs as safely and quickly as possible and will continue to keep the community updated,” Wiseman said.