Desert Road Closure for Two Months

The Desert Road between Tūrangi and Waiouru is set to close for two months due to maintenance, including the reconstruction of 16 kilometers of road and the replacement of the Mangatoetoenui Bridge deck, which is expected to last another 50 years. Transport NZ's chief executive, Dom Kalasih, emphasized the need for the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to adhere to the two-month timeline and manage costs responsibly, as the detour will increase transport costs for drivers by approximately $160. The detour adds 30 to 40 minutes to travel times and involves a speed limit reduction near Ohakune, alongside enhanced signage and police presence. Issues with NZTA's journey planner have caused confusion among drivers about detours. Ground temperatures must remain above 13°C for the work to proceed, with the potential for frost affecting operations. The bridge deck is currently being constructed in Napier and is scheduled for shipment soon.