Eighth recent SH3 Awakino Gorge closure: Businesses say they're hurting
State Highway 3 in New Zealand's Awakino Gorge is facing its ninth closure due to necessary culvert installation work. Local business owners are expressing frustration over the economic impact and are calling for government compensation.
Why it matters
Frequent infrastructure closures highlight the tension between necessary public works and the economic survival of small, rural businesses.
Correction: The headline has been amended to say eighth recent closure of SH3
It's a case of grin and bear it for Mōkau businesses facing yet another complete closure of the Awakino Gorge - the link between Taranaki and Waikato - on State Highway 3.
The Transport Agency has announced the gorge will be closed between the rest area near the Historic Tunnel and the intersection of SH3 and Manganui Road, for four days from 6am Saturday 22 August to 6pm Tuesday 25 August.
During the closure, crews will be working to install three culverts to drain water, which is currently flowing over the road, at the massive slip that came down in April .
It's the ninth closure of the Awakino Gorge for weather-related incidents or repairs in recent times.
Owner of the River Run Cafe in Mōkau, Dev Rawat, said road closures were devastating for his business.
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