Traffic disruption continues on State Highway 2 over the Remutaka Hill after a substantial rockfall this morning has blocked the southbound lane, forcing road closures and delays for motorists travelling between the Wairarapa and Wellington regions.
The rockfall occurred overnight, with large debris deposited across the southbound carriageway near the summit. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency crews were quickly deployed to assess the scene, remove hazardous material and work toward reopening the lane. However, the scale of the blockage has necessitated traffic control and temporary closures as work continues.
Remutaka Hill is a key transport link on the east-west corridor, providing vital connection for commuters, freight and regional travel. The closure has caused considerable tailbacks in both directions, with significant delays expected throughout the day.
Waka Kotahi says safety remains the top priority and that crews are working as quickly as possible to clear the roadway and ensure motorists can travel safely. Drivers are being urged to allow extra travel time, follow traffic management directions, and consider alternative routes where possible.
Weather conditions in the area have been changeable, and rockfall risk on steep hill routes can rise quickly following heavy rainfall or rapid temperature changes. The transport agency has reminded drivers to remain vigilant when travelling through hill and coastal corridors prone to slips and rockfall.
The disruption comes at a time when New Zealand’s transport network is already under pressure from recent severe weather events, with other major State Highways and local roads experiencing ongoing repairs and closures across several regions.
Commuters and freight operators using SH2 are monitoring the situation closely as repairs continue, with updates expected from Waka Kotahi throughout the day. Motorists are advised to stay informed via official transport channels and adjust travel plans as needed.
Radio Waatea will continue to follow this developing situation and provide updates as they become available.
