The storm that lashed the Tararua District on 15–16 February put the district’s roading network to a timely test.

Despite heavy rainfall, in some areas exceeding totals from the 2022 storms and even Cyclone Gabrielle, no significant damage was recorded. Fifty-five roads were closed at the height of the event, mainly due to treefall. All were reopened within a week.

Tararua Alliance Network Manager Andrew Desmond says the storm tested the network’s resilience and showed that recent investment in roadside drainage and targeted resilience improvements are paying off.

“In some areas where we previously experienced drop-outs and slips, this time we saw little to no damage,” Mr Desmond said. “While it is only one event, the strengthened drainage, slope stabilisation, and targeted strengthening over the past two years are showing their worth.”

He says the event also provided valuable insight for ongoing improvements. “After a storm like this, our inspectors cover the whole network to capture data on how the network performed - where it’s strong and where vulnerabilities remain. That information guides our future maintenance and renewal investment.”

Details of our current road status can be found at Current Road Status | Tararua District Council

Downed tree clearance on Alfredton Road: