Arthur’s Pass closed due to rockfall

Due to rockfalls, State Highway 73 between Arthur's Pass Village and Otira will be closed until at least noon on Saturday. Photo: NZTA

Arthur’s Pass has been closed due to ongoing rockfalls.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi closed State Highway 73 between Arthur’s Pass Village and Otira early this morning.

The main route between the West Coast and Canterbury was closed about 1am after heavy rain caused more rocks and material to fall onto the highway along the western side of the Rock Shelter, near the Otira viaduct.

The rockfall first started on Tuesday this week and briefly closed the highway that afternoon.

But NZTA West Coast maintenance contract manager Moira Whinham said the rockfall restarted overnight with the heavy rain.

“With rain continuing throughout the day, the road will remain closed today with the next update on SH73 at midday Saturday, 24 August,” said Whinham.

“Our first concern is the safety of our teams and road users and until conditions stabilise enough to allow safe access to clear the area the road will remain closed.

“The conditions will be reassessed on Saturday to determine whether it will be safe to open during daylight hours going forward.”

The weather forecast through to Tuesday next week indicates continuing periods of heavy rain on the West Coast and this may mean ongoing closures on SH73 at the Rock Shelter.

An alternative route between the West Coast and Canterbury is open.

Motorists should take the Lewis Pass route via Waipara and Reefton/SH7, which adds around an hour to the journey between Christchurch and the West Coast, said Whinham.