From this week, the convoy distance through the Waioweka Gorge has been reduced to approximately 2.6 kilometres, with controlled access through the Goldsmith slip area.

The change means the Gisborne side meeting point has shifted north to 1km north of the Oponae rest area, while the Ōpōtiki side meeting point at the Goldsmith Reserve remains unchanged.

By shortening the convoy distance, each piloted trip is estimated to take around 10-to-20 minutes (depending on the number of vehicles in each convoy), enabling adjustments to the schedule and longer uninterrupted work periods.

This will give crews more time on the ground to continue stabilisation work at the Goldsmith slip site so the road can be restored to normal two-way traffic sooner.

Convoys continue to operate seven days a week.

Convoy times:

Gisborne bound

■ Start point: Goldsmith Reserve
■ Departure times: 7am, 12:30pm, 6:30pm

Ōpōtiki bound

■ Start point: 1km north of the Oponae rest area
■ Departure times: 7:30am, 1pm, 7pm

While geotechnical assessments confirm the road is safe under controlled access, New Zealand Transport Agency encourages people to carefully consider whether their travel is essential and to plan ahead.

Drivers should be prepared for the road to close at short notice if weather conditions or risk assessments change. It is an active worksite and still vulnerable – normal road conditions should not be expected.

Convoys will remain in place while specialist crews complete essential tasks including drainage improvements, culvert checks, and debris clearance to stabilise the site.