SH4 Parapara Road update

8 September 2022

Busy slip clear crews

Recent weather events have affected some communities, and it has been a busy winter for our contractors. We know that SH4 is an important connection for communities, businesses, and freight, and we acknowledge that closures have a major impact on those living, working, and travelling along this route.

Two slip clear crews continue to clear material from numerous slip sites on SH4 between Upokongaro to Raetihi. Restoring and maintaining safe access is our top priority and we really appreciate the patience and support shown as works continue.

Please continue to drive to the conditions, remain alert of unreported hazards and take care. Information on travel time information, road works and road closures can be found on Journey Planner.


	Auraki Stream road retreat project site

	Auraki Stream road retreat works Work on the Auraki Stream site is progressing well. With the current road being affected by the slip at the Mangawhero River, we are relocating the road away from where it has failed. This will mean a return to two lanes on this stretch of highway with no temporary traffic management or priority give way road layout. The large culvert where the Auraki Stream currently goes under the highway is being extended to facilitate the new road alignment (see the new culvert in place pictured below). One recent challenge we've been working through is identifying a water source for a new wetland located in the Northern Gully Fill site. The intension was to identify and tap into an existing spring as the gully got progressively filled in. However no springs at an appropriate level and location were encountered. As a result, with iwi we’ve been reworking the design of the wetlands. Winter weather put a hold on most of the work at the Auraki Stream site but we are still tracking towards project completion mid 2023. If you use this route, thank you for your patience while the road is reduced to one lane and the traffic lights are operated.



	Auraki rocks! Earlier in the year, our works exposed a surprise alluvial seam, pictured below. The alluvial seam had loose material and boulders in it, some of which were as high as two metres, as pictured above. Boulders were carefully excavated, and we are using long soil nails and mesh to hold the seam in place.



	With the guidance of iwi we have also been working on the careful relocation of a large kōhatu (stone) that was located at the end of the old culvert. The kōhatu, pictured above, has cultural significance and needs to be carefully moved. This is not without challenge due to the size, shape and weight of the stone!

Te Oreore permanent road reinstatement

Following the landslip at Te Oreore in 2019, the temporary road remains in place, and we continue to monitor the stability of the landslide.

Recent rainfall did cause some ground movement in the area but is likely to be relatively shallow and localised. The temporary road was not compromised.

We are working towards construction of the new permanent road at Te Oreore as soon as possible. With the site located in the Whangaehu River catchment, we need to ensure our work supports the objectives of Te Waiū-o-Te-Ika, a legal framework for the catchment. For example, the mouri (vital essence) of the water in the area is of utmost importance, and any work undertaken must align with the existing iwi taiao (environment) management plan. We acknowledge the collective of Ngāi Tuhiariki, Ngāti Rangi and the Ātihau-Whanganui Incorporation for providing feedback and guidance in this space as we progress the project and look to secure consents.

Support for Mangaeturoa project

We were happy to be able to donate a water tank recently to the Mangaeturoa Baths and School Revitalisation Project. It was being stored at our Te Oreore site and was surplus to requirements.

This summer it will be used to get the community swimming pool at the old school site going again! As you can see, there were smiles all round after it was delivered.


	More information


	For information on the State Highway 4 slip repairs projects, visit our website You can also email us at any time on SH4@nzta.govt.nz

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SH4 Parapara Road update

Busy slip clear crews

Auraki Stream road retreat works

Auraki rocks!

Te Oreore permanent road reinstatement

Support for Mangaeturoa project

More information