The installation of a new rockfall protection system at the Goldsmith slip site is a major milestone in the recovery of State Highway 2 through the Waioweka Gorge, with two-way traffic expected to resume early next month, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.

Bishop said the Goldsmith slip had been one of the most challenging sites in the gorge following the severe weather that struck the Eastern Bay and Tairāwhiti earlier in the year.

More than 20,000 cubic metres of material came down, closing the critical freight route in both directions for more than three weeks.

“The installation of a new ‘rockfall attenuator’ is a key part of the work to make the site safer and more resilient. The system uses flexible high-tensile steel wire mesh, cables and energy-absorbing components to slow and control falling rocks and debris, reducing the risk of further disruption and protecting road users.

“It has already demonstrated its value, capturing more than 10 cubic metres of falling material shortly after installation.

Alongside drainage improvements, pavement repairs and finishing works, the site was expected to reopen to two-way traffic early next month, for the first time since January.

“Completing this specialist structure is an important step towards a safer and more resilient transport connection between the Bay of Plenty and Tairāwhiti, and follows months of geotechnical investigations, slope scaling, stabilisation activities and specialist construction in a challenging environment.

“NZ Transport Agency is delivering around $33 million of recovery and resilience work in the Gorge, alongside a further $75 million announced through Budget 2026 for the wider corridor between Ōpōtiki and Matawai.

“A number of sites throughout the gorge are currently being assessed for inclusion in this wider resilience package. The programme is expected to be finalised in the coming months, with work to begin by April 2027.