Major Slip Closes Omamari Road

The main access road to Omamari Beach, Omamari Road, has been closed by a major slip but alternative access is available by way of Babylon Coast Road. Access to the Kai Iwi lakes is not affected.

Kaipara District Council Community Infrastructural Assets Manager Fiona Vessey says the slip occurred late on Friday afternoon near the top of the western side of the hill between Kai Iwi Lakes Road and Omamari Beach. It undermined the sealed road and strong winds are exacerbating the problem by causing further erosion of the sandy soil.

She says the road is too dangerous for traffic so barricades have been erected on either side of the slip. Affected residents have been advised of the situation, along with emergency services and school bus operators.

Engineers will assess the site today and until then Council is unable to say how the slip will be repaired or how long the road closure will have to remain.

“Our priority is to get one lane open as soon as possible, but in the meantime we apologise for the inconvenience and thank everyone for their co-operation”, Mrs Vessey says.

She said local residents have been very supportive, offering assistance and local knowledge.

Anyone requiring information concerning the road is asked to contact Council’s Customer Services Team on 09 439 7059.