Weld Pass night closures
Summer state highway maintenance work by NZTA Waka Kotahi means the closure of Weld Pass from 18 to 20 February between 8pm and 6am.
Rob Service, System Manager, Top of the South, said Weld Pass will be closed to all traffic while the work is completed.
“Our contractors will be carrying out road repairs, fixing road signs and guardrails, installing raised line markings, as well as investigating future options for improving and maintaining the highway’s road surface,” he said.
“Because Weld Pass is narrow, night closures are the best way to get the work done as quickly and safely as possible.”
Work has been planned as carefully as possible to have the least impact on traffic, and there will be two openings every night to let queued traffic through the work areas - one at midnight and another at 3am.
The closures will create delays for those travelling overnight between Christchurch and Picton. Drivers are urged to factor this into their travel plans and allow extra time for their journeys. This is especially important for drivers with ferry connections.
Mr Service says further maintenance and inspection work is planned for Weld Pass later this year.
“Drivers can expect night closures in late April/early May to ensure the highway is in good shape before winter and another closure in October ahead of summer. Weld Pass is a vital part of State Highway 1 - it’s essential it’s regularly maintained.”
If works are delayed due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, Wednesday 21 February will be a contingency night.