The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) announced that rock blasting work on State Highway 6 north of Haast will be scaled back to reduce delays for road users. The scaling crew, working in the Epitaph Rift area, has made significant progress since reopening the route after extensive flooding and rockfall on 9 November.

From next week, rock blasting operations will close the highway for shorter periods—between 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm—on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons (10, 12, 17, and 19 December), ahead of the Christmas break.

Moira Whinham, NZTA’s Maintenance Contract Manager for the West Coast, said, “Given they are using explosives, we need to prioritise safety for road users and crew members. However, we are now able to reduce the closure time to minimise inconvenience.”

The crew will take a three-week break from Friday, 20 December, resuming operations on Monday, 13 January. Work will continue on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in the new year, with updates provided as progress is made toward stabilising the area and mitigating future risks from severe weather.

“We understand the inconvenience these closures cause for South Westland road users and appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation,” Whinham said.

Motorists are advised to plan their journeys around the updated closure schedule and to stay informed about further developments.