Nevis Bluff, SH6, spring 2021 programme - keeping people safe from bouncing rocks

From next Monday, 1 November, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s Nevis Bluff spring safety programme gets underway.

People who travel along State Highway 6 between Cromwell and Queenstown may spot activity above them on the rock faces that form the Nevis Bluff.

“People need to factor in short delays, up to ten minutes at a time, weekdays, for around three weeks,” Waka Kotahi Central Otago Maintenance Contract Manager for Mark Stewart says.

The work will run for two weeks between 8am and 5pm from Monday, 1 November, to Friday, 12 November.

“People stopped in their cars may be able to see abseilers inspecting and removing loose rock on the Nevis Bluff rock face,” Mark says. 

“We need to ensure the road below is clear when rocks are being dropped or loosened.”

‘Not a bad day to be at the office’: Abseilers (Wayo Carson standing, Paul “Chinny” Chin sitting, Pete Brown’s legs) above the Kawarau River sit tight while traffic is let through on the Nevis Bluff, autumn 2021. Photo courtesy: Warrick Hamilton.

The work is being done by the Aspiring Highways team, on behalf of Waka Kotahi.

“The Nevis Bluff is a site we regularly inspect, monitor and stabilise as part of our commitment to provide a safe, accessible highway network,” Mark says.

“The best times to do this work are the shoulder seasons in autumn and spring when traffic volumes are at their lowest.

“We appreciate everyone’s understanding for any delays that they may encounter and thank them for following the temporary, lowered speeds which are for their safety and the safety of our workers.”

This work should be complete by Friday, 12 November, subject to weather conditions.

The Nevis Bluff is about half-way between Cromwell and Queenstown – 25 minutes from Cromwell, 35 minutes from Queenstown, above the Kawarau River.