Media release from Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency | 21 September 2022 5:06 pm

A major slip on State Highway 53 to Martinborough in the Wairarapa is set to keep the road closed for a day or longer.

The slip occurred shortly before 3 pm, Wednesday 21 September 2022. State Highway 53 is closed between No 1 Line and Wards Line (see map below).

Slip closes State Highway 53 to Martinborough

The closure will provide safety for the road crews while they work to make the hillside and highway safe for road users ahead of heavy rain forecast for later this week. It is estimated this work could take 24 to 36 hours to complete.

There is a high risk of further slips from the hillside. A large number of mature pine trees are at risk of falling onto the road and must be removed.

A detour is available via Bidwills Cutting Road. This turn-off is just south of Greytown. Road users must be aware there will be no access via State Highway 53 from Featherston. The highway’s status will be reviewed Thursday afternoon.

Traffic management controllers will be on duty to direct vehicles and assist those who live inside the closure zone to access their properties.

Waka Kotahi apologises to road users and residents for the inconvenience. However, the closure is necessary for safety reasons, and contractors will work to clear the site as quickly as possible.

Check the Waka Kotahi traffic map website for updates: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/journeys/11