Media release

10 September 2008

Road blocked by Kawakawa Bay landslip could reopen soon

The road blocked by a major landslip at Kawakawa Bay could be open within two to three weeks.

The reopened road would only be single lane and controlled to ensure public safety. The update on the landslip and long term options for fixing it are being discussed at a community meeting this evening.

Manukau City Council Economic Director Rick Walden says the road will be reopened when geotechnical experts advise the landslip is stable enough. This is dependent on the weather.

“The council wants to reopen the road as soon as possible because we realise the considerable inconvenience and frustration for the community. People have been understanding and appreciate the alternative transport options the council has provided But they do want to know how and when the problem will be fixed.

“However if we reopen the road or allow people back into their homes to soon and the landslip comes down someone could be killed. That’s not a chance the council can take.

“Although the council wants to reopen the road as soon as possible, what is required is a permanent solution. We have been looking at a number of options and believe the most practical and quickest option would be to stabilise and remove the existing slip so the road can reopen along its current route.

“Alternative road alignments have been explored but aren’t practical and would be in areas where the land is even more unstable.

“The council has been regularly updating the community on the landslip and will continue to do this,” Mr Walden says.

Transport alternatives

Ferry:

The free ferry service will continue beyond next week and the Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) is helping Manukau City Council to provide it. Two weeks notice will be given if there is any change to this service.

Ferry sailings:

6.15am - Pine Harbour Marina to Kawakawa Bay Boating Club

7am - Kawakawa Boating Club to Pine Harbour Marina.

5.40pm (Mon – Thurs)/ 6.40pm (Friday) - Pine Harbour Marina to Kawakawa Bay Boating Club.

6.15pm (Mon – Thurs)/ 7.15pm (Friday) - Kawakawa Boating Club to Pine Harbour Marina.

Other transport alternatives in place are a walking track and four wheel drive shuttle service behind the landslip, two shoppers buses each week to Thames and Papakura, and school bus for Clevedon students temporarily attending to Orere School.

Regular updates and details of alternative transport options are available through the council call centre (phone 262 5104) and at www.manukau.govt.nz.

Residents who live in the Kawakawa Bay and Orere Point area and have been affected by the landslip may be eligible for immediate assistance.

For more information call the GOVERNMENT HELPLINE 0800 779 997. One call will connect you to the right range of services.

ENDS

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