Manawatu Gorge Update (23rd November)

Good progress is being made forming a track through land above the slip face to tackle the problem from the top down. Work is also progressing with a tree clearing operation on the hillside to prepare for the benching activity.

Engineers and geologists are continuing to assess the slip-face and surrounding area. The latest information is that the ‘lip’ at the top of the slip is still very unstable, which will affect how close machines can get to it. Once in place, machines will begin to remove material from the top of the slip in steps – called “benches” in engineering terms. These will create level stable areas from which machines and men can operate safely. Machinery will start the benching process today (Wednesday).

A tree crew is working to clear the trees and scrub from the top of the slip. Once this work is done, machinery can then be used. Throughout the clearing process, spotters will continually be scanning the slip face watching for any signs of movement, which, if detected will mean work stops immediately, and will be reassessed before continuing work.

Down in the gorge itself, river engineers are investigating any impacts the slip is having on the river. Preliminary reports suggest that there are currently no issues of concern.

Alternative routes

Work is well underway on the three slow vehicle bays on the Saddle Road.

Crews are continually monitoring the state of this route and making running repairs as required.

More information is available from a new dedicated gorge web page www.nzta.govt.nz/manawatu-gorge.