The following media release from NZTA details progress on road works on SH30 at Ruato Bay, approximately halfway between Whakatāne and Rotorua. This section of SH30 has been a signal-controlled, one-lane road while NZTA remedies rock fall hazards in the area. Expect continued delays on this portion of SH30 if travelling to Rotorua and points south via SH30 over the holiday period.

The NZ Transport Agency says a section of State Highway 30 at Ruato Bay will not be open before Christmas due to some unexpected challenges.

Highways Manager for the Transport Agency, Brett Gliddon, says the section of road was closed due to a rock fall in 2012. The crew have been working to a Christmas deadline, but they’ve encountered issues with grouting the last several hundred holes because of large cavities within the rock face.

“The crew have been working overtime to try and remedy the issue with grout, and approximately 400 holes have been filled, the bolts secured, and a significant amount of protective steel mesh has been placed along the site. There are another 120 holes to be filled, which will not be completed before Christmas despite the crew’s efforts,” says Mr Gliddon.

“Once the wire mesh fencing is secured and the danger of further rock falls is reduced, then the road is safe to open up to two lanes, and this is likely to be early next year,” says Mr Gliddon.

The current signalised traffic management operation will be in place throughout the summer holiday period and until the project is completed.

“We thank the community and drivers for their patience whilst this work is completed.”