Reopening of SH2 and SH35

NZKGI has written to Hon Chris Bishop, Minister of Transport to highlight the urgent importance of reopening SH2 and SH35 for harvest and ensuring SH5 remains operational. The closure of both SH2 and SH35 has left the only viable alternative route via Taupō and Rotorua. This option significantly lengthens travel time, increases freight costs, and introduces logistical challenges during a time-critical harvest period. Further, if this Taupō and Rotorua route were to be inaccessible for an extended period, there would be a material impact on the profitability of the East Coast and also Hawke’s Bay harvests. NZKGI also acknowledges and appreciates the strong communication from Waka Kotahi and Downer, and we recognise the high priority that is being placed on reopening these routes. NZKGI letter to Min Bishop