Local government leaders are demanding urgent action from the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) following “ongoing and unacceptable disruptions” to the northern corridor between New Plymouth and Te Kuiti. The call for intervention comes after a massive slip in the Awakino Gorge closed State Highway 3 on April 18.
Urgent Demands for Leadership
New Plymouth mayor Max Brough has urged NZTA chief executive Brett Gliddon to meet with regional leaders in Taranaki within 10 working days. This request was sent via email and included leaders from Taranaki, Waitomo, Ruapehu, Ōtorohanga and Waipa.
Mayor Brough stated that the scale of the impact and regional concern make this discussion a priority. The proposed itinerary includes a meeting in New Plymouth, a site visit to affected areas, and a discussion on next steps.
Economic Isolation and “Ghost Towns”
The closure has had a severe impact on regional connectivity and local commerce. Waitomo mayor John Robertson noted that New Plymouth businesses are effectively isolated, particularly affecting truck traffic moving toward Auckland, and Hamilton.
In the South Waikato settlement of Mōkau, the situation has been described as a “ghost town” and “dead as a doornail.” Local butcher Bryan Lester reported serving only three customers on a Wednesday between 7 a.m. And 3:30 p.m.
Similarly, Nic Phillips, owner of Nic’s Latte and Grill, closed her caravan on a Thursday due to the lack of traffic. Phillips described the Awakino Gorge as a “choke point,” noting that when rocks fall, there is no way north for traffic.
The Cost of Resilience
Mayor Robertson emphasized the necessitate for a road that can withstand severe weather, suggesting that tens of millions of dollars may be required to fix this specific section. He pointed to the $800 million Crown investment in Mount Messenger as an example of the scale of work needed on the highway.
While some have discussed a coastal route to the west, Robertson noted such an option would be “massively expensive.” He called on the NZTA to present viable options for long-term sustainability.
Waka Kotahi’s Response
Waka Kotahi has stated it is acutely aware of the impact on communities and businesses. The agency reported that crews are working to reopen the road, which is not expected to be accessible until May 2 at the earliest.
Current efforts include excavating a 50-metre-long bench on the hillside to capture falling debris. Crews are also clearing between 12,000 and 16,000 cubic metres of material from the largest slip, while simultaneously clearing drains and culverts.
NZTA Regional Relationships Director Linda Stewart told RNZ’s Morning Report that road maintenance is becoming more challenging as severe weather events increase. She noted that while the Awakino tunnel bypass was completed, continued investment is a “balancing act” for the nation.
CEO Brett Gliddon has confirmed he is keen to meet with the mayors, and a date for a visit in May is currently being finalised.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is State Highway 3 expected to reopen?
The road is not expected to reopen until May 2 at the earliest.
Why are bypass routes not solving the problem?
According to Waitomo mayor John Robertson, the primary bypass route via the Forgotten Highway (State Highway 43) was also closed by the severe weather event.
What specific work is being done to clear the slip?
Crews are clearing 12,000 to 16,000 cubic metres of material from the main slip and excavating a 50-metre hillside bench to capture future debris.
Do you believe the government should prioritise expensive long-term bypasses over repeated short-term repairs in weather-prone corridors?
