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Freight stalled in south

Posted on 14 November, 2016

Freight has been stalled in the South Island, halting transport throughout the country. Road Transport Forum chief executive Ken Shirley told news website stuff.co.nz that with the main Kaikoura and inland route down, as well as issues with Lewis Pass, "there's not a lot of freight getting through." According to a media release from NZTA, the highway between Mackays Crossing and Paremata is in the process of being closed this morning due to the severe flooding.  There is also severe flooding at Mana and the Plimmerton roundabout. Alternative inland state highway route was re-established last night between Picton and Christchurch, via Murchison and the Lewis Pass. NZTA contractors have been working urgently throughout the day to assess the safety of bridges and clear slips to safely open the route. This will re-establish access for communities, as well as allowing large trucks through to Christchurch. While the route is open, the NZTA is advising that some sections will only be open to a single lane, with active traffic management in place. Motorists are urged to use caution and take extra care as conditions are still changing. According to the NZTA, the priority is to re-connect communities which have been cut off by slips and the Transport Agency is working urgently with other agencies such as Police, KiwiRail and local authorities to coordinate efforts ensuring people are transported out of closed areas safely, and roads or alternative routes are open and safe to use as soon as possible. As of 4pm on Monday, KiwiRail advised that all lines north, east and west of Palmerston North, and the Midland Line between Rolleston and Greymouth are open. An inspection of the North Island Main Trunk Line (NIMT) between Palmerston North and Wellington is still underway and the line remains closed. KiwiRail is hopeful freight services should begin moving this afternoon in and out of Wellington. Meanwhile, there is significant damage to the Main North Line between Picton and Christchurch, particularly around Kaikoura. Early reports indicate this may be closed for some time. Interislander ferries Kaiarahi and Kaitaki are expected to resume sailings from 6pm on Monday. Vehicle passengers and freight will be carried, however foot passengers will not, due to damage to the Picton terminal.