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It's been a very different summer for businesses on the Coromandel compared to a year ago when a vital road was damaged and rendered impassable after storm events.
State Highway 25 between Kōpū and Hikuai is the crucial link to the many towns of the Coromandel district. It was closed for repairs between January and December, disrupting businesses and tourism and meaning a lengthy detour for visitors and deliveries.
The roadway reopened just before Christmas 2023, three months ahead of schedule and Thames-Coromandel District Mayor Len Salt and Tairua Business Association member Maree Smith who owns Get It On boutique, says it's been a game changer.