Access to Golden Bay via the Takaka Hill Road will increase from tomorrow, with plans to have it open for longer over Easter.
Slips on Takaka Hill immediately after Cyclone Gita Photo: NZTA
The road was badly damaged by slips brought down during Cyclone Gita last month.
Since then the road has been open to restricted convoys for an hour each morning and evening.
Transport Agency spokesman Frank Porter said the opening times will be extended to two hours from tomorrow.
The opening time on Sunday, from 8am to 5pm, will remain in place.
There were plans to open the road between 8am and 5pm during the four-day Easter break, he said.
Golden Bay residents and businesses affected by the cyclone will receive $100,000 in financial support from the government, it announced today.
Members of the community had appealed for help since Cyclone Gita hit on 20 February.
Economic development minister David Parker said the damage to the Takaka Hill Road meant many Golden Bay businesses were suffering from fewer customers and limited freight services, that could have long-term impacts.
The money will go into a relief fund managed by the Tasman District Council.
