A slip behind Tamarangi Drive does not pose a threat to people or property. Photo: LDR / Troy Baker
Multiple slips have been reported in Bay of Plenty after a swarm of earthquakes shook the region over the weekend and earlier this week.
It includes a slip on council land behind Tamarangi Drive in the Kawerau township. The slip has been checked and does not pose a threat to people or property.
An existing slip in Massey Street appears to have been unaffected by the quakes and is already on council's radar to repair.
Waka Kotahi Bay of Plenty system manager Roger Brady said about 21 slips came down on SH30, between Lake Rotoma and Kawerau, over the weekend, and another 16 on SH34.
"While the weather was a factor, the main cause was the earthquakes which dislodged loose material above the highways," Brady said.
"Waka Kotahi contractors responded immediately, putting stop/go traffic control in place to ensure public safety and begin clearance. There were also short periods where traffic was stopped in both directions to allow removal of material."
Priority was placed on clearing the road with the largest traffic volume, which was SH30, Brady said.
"The crews started at one end and worked their way through to the other. While the crews were able to clear both state highways to allow for two-way traffic on Saturday night, the clean-up continues," he said.
"We expect to have this work completed by Friday evening"
Local Democracy Reporting is Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air