Work to strengthen the cliff face above State Highway 6 Rocks Rd is progressing well, with contractors working day and night to keep the project on track for a November completion date.
New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi says 40 contractors are currently working on site to reduce slip and rockfall risk.
“This is essential if we are to achieve our November completion date. We need to do as much as we can, as efficiently as possible, to meet that deadline,” area manager Nelson Tasman Rob Service says.
“We appreciate the impact the work and traffic management are having on the community, and we want to thank the public for their patience and cooperation as this critical project continues.”
Rob says crews are continuing to clear loose soil, rock and vegetation from the cliff face while applying shotcrete and installing stainless-steel mesh on the upper and lower sections.
“They are working progressively from the southern end towards the northern end of the site.”
Work is also continuing on a retaining wall on NZTA-owned land at the top of the cliff face, with completion expected in October.
“This new wall is a key component of the project and will help reduce future rockfall and slip risk,” Rob says.
Temporary traffic management remains in place on Rocks Rd from the Basin Reserve for about 300 metres towards Tāhunanui, allowing contractors to work safely at both the top and base of the cliff. Both lanes remain open, but traffic has been shifted closer to the sea to create a safe work zone.
Motorists are reminded cyclists will "claim the lane" while travelling through the site. Cyclists will ride in the centre of the lane to improve visibility before returning to the cycle lane after leaving the work area. All road users are urged to follow the 30km/h temporary speed limit and take care while travelling through the site.
The footpath will remain open throughout the project, and cyclists who do not wish to ride in traffic can dismount and walk their bikes through the work area. Local businesses along Rocks Rd remain open, and the community is encouraged to continue supporting them while work continues.
Work remains dependent on weather and ground conditions, and plans may change if further issues are identified.
Work schedule:
Daytime traffic management
Night works
