Subscribe to RSSAbseilers Tackle Slip
KiwiRail says it’s working around the clock to get freight to Christchurch while the Main North Line remains closed by a large slip south of Kaikoura.
The freight being moved is general containerised goods, including food bound for supermarket shelves in Christchurch. To date, KiwiRail has transported approximately 60 containers south using up to 40 trucks.
But NZTA says it will be this Thursday at the earliest before State Highway 1 at Peketa about 8km south of Kaikoura reopens. At this stage the aim is to have at least one lane of the highway open by then.
NZTA Peter Connors says stabilising the slip is an on-going challenge. Currently there are two specialists abseiling the slip site removing loose debris, so this does not pose a threat to contractors working at the site. At this stage the slip is not stable enough to work through the night.
Mr Connors says finding a solution to help ensue on-going stability of the slip site is something the NZTA is working on with Kiwirail and Environment Canterbury. Spoil from the slip is being used to help with local flood protection works Environment Canterbury are carrying out.
KiwiRail is moving freight from its facility at Spring Creek, near Blenheim. This will continue for as long as necessary. At the same time, KiwiRail is looking at other options to supplement its ‘road bridging’ operation.
The TranzCoastal passenger service between Picton and Christchurch has been suspended given the difficulties in running a timely coach replacement service with the State Highway also closed by the slip. Passengers are being offered the option of travel on an alternative date, or a refund on their fare.
The TranzAlpine, which runs daily between Christchurch and Greymouth, is unaffected.
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