East Coast MP Dana Kirkpatrick says she has been advocating strongly for investment in the Waioweka Gorge, so she’s delighted to see work getting under way.

“People want action and that is what we are delivering. The contracts are signed, crews are mobilising, and work is under way to strengthen one of the East Coast’s most important transport links,” she said.

“I have met with freight operators and the horticulture sector to assure them this Government takes very seriously the importance of this section of road for economic security across the wider electorate. And we are committed to ensuring it is open more reliably.

“I have ensured NZTA will not close the road in an orange rain warning going forward. This was a difficult policy and very challenging for businesses and local primary producers.

“Overall, this is encouraging news for the East Coast. State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge is one of our most important transport lifelines, and getting these recovery works under way is a major step forward for our communities and businesses.

She said East Coast communities needed reliable roads. “This isn’t just about today’s challenges; it’s about future-proofing a critical route for the next generation and ensuring the East Coast remains connected no matter what the weather throws at us.”