A “tar-like substance” has been reported across highways and roads in New Zealand’s North Island, with officials currently working to identify the source of the material.
Bitumen Spills Reported Across North Island
Lumps of bitumen, commonly used as a binding agent in asphalt and often derived from crude oil, have been found scattered from Southern Waikato to Wellington, according to NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi. The substance first appeared on February 25.
The presence of the bitumen has raised concerns among residents and transport operators. Auckland resident Jeremy Bradley commented, “It’s not a good look when Notice billions being spent on roads, while healthcare and education go lacking.” Transporting NZ has received reports from truck operators detailing damage and inconvenience caused by the spills.
Safety Concerns and Investigation
Waka Kotahi has expressed “deeply concerned” about the damage to State Highways 1, 4 and 49. The agency is currently reviewing evidence and requesting information from the public to aid in their investigation. The raised positioning of the bitumen on roads and footpaths has been identified as a potential “stumbling hazard.”
Areas affected include residential streets and footpaths in Auckland suburbs like Kohimarama and Takapuna, as well as key routes in Manawatū, such as Railway Rd from Palmerston North to Bunnythorpe and industrial areas in Palmerston North. Manawatū District Council is awaiting the outcome of NZTA’s investigation before determining any further action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bitumen?
Bitumen is most often used as a binding agent with asphalt for road construction and is often derived from crude oil.
What is Waka Kotahi doing about the spills?
Waka Kotahi is reviewing evidence and has welcomed information from the public that could help identify the source of the bitumen.
Is compensation available for vehicle damage?
It is “rare for NZTA to compensate for vehicle damage,” and only five of 145 complaints for road-related damage were paid in the 2022-23 financial year.
As the investigation continues, what steps do you think could be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future?
