Media Release
25 August 2008 – 4.30pm

Northern access to Kawakawa Bay remains closed

Kawakawa-Clevedon Road just north of Kawakawa Bay will remain closed overnight following a slip on Sunday.

Approximately 500 cubic metres of earth came down onto the road following heavy rain, resulting in its closure yesterday. The slip, which also partially closed the road at the beginning of the month, has been caused by heavy rain over a long period.

The closure means approximately 1500 people living in the area will need to continue using a longer alternative route. People driving to and from the Kawakawa Bay and Orere Point area should travel via Kaiaua and use State Highway One and Two.

Drivers should expect delays because some parts of the road south of Kawakawa Bay are only one way following slips today.

Manukau City Council Economic Director Rick Walden says the closure of the road will be reviewed tomorrow.

“Contractors have been working to clear the road, however with rain predicted we’re keeping the road closed because more debris is likely to come down.

“Although road closures are a major inconvenience for people living in the area the council needs to make sure there are no risks to public safety.

“The council will continue to monitor the slips and regularly update the community on what is happening,” Mr Walden says.

People driving to the Kawakawa Bay and Orere Point area should use the following alternative routes:

State Highway 1 - State Highway 2 – East Coast Road via Kaiaua. From Clevedon: Monument Rd -Sky High Rd - Hunua Rd - Paparimu Rd. See attached detour routes.

Electronic message signs with updates and detour signs are up along roads in the area. There will be regular updates through the council call centre (phone 262 5104) and at www.manukau.govt.nz

ENDS

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