End in sight for Rāwene traffic and water disruption

A major project to repair a slip that has reduced the main road into Rāwene to one lane since February is being finalised with work likely to begin within four to six weeks.

The slip was caused by a significant storm, closing a section of the south-bound lane of Parnell Street opposite the Mariner Street intersection, and damaging the town’s main water supply pipe resulting in repeated water outages – the most recent occurring last week.

Design work on a long-term repair has now been completed, with final details being worked through with contractors. The work will take at least 10 weeks to complete and includes construction of a 48-metre-long mechanically stabilised earth (MSE) wall to shore-up the slope and improve road resilience.

The road will be excavated up to 2.8 metres deep in some areas and the water main will be replaced at that point. The main will be diverted to ensure that supplies are not interrupted during the slip repairs. The project will be complicated by the proximity of overhead powerlines requiring extra safety measures.

Temporary traffic management will be in place for the duration of the work and will aim to minimise disruption for locals, businesses and those wanting to use the Hokianga ferry service. An alternative route for travellers will be available via Clendon Esplanade and Marmon Street.