Change the inferior bitumen, repair worst ‘bleeding’ sites urgently

The rivers of bitumen flowing on Morere Hill and throughout the Gorge road are the worst in more than 40 years. It’s clear that NZTA, in its drive for efficiency, has been using an inferior bitumen product that is not fit for purpose in hot climates. The problem areas are all on areas of new seal. In parts the roads are close to undrivable, likely to cause damage to vehicles and slow traffic to a crawl.

NZTA’s Mark Owen’s comment that the bitumen meets NZTA specification is entirely unacceptable. What we need from NZTA is a clear commitment to change the inferior bitumen and bitumen-laying process they have been using and repair the sites that are bleeding excessively urgently.

This includes Mr Owen confirming when the bitumen burner will be brought into the region and the badly bleeding sites repaired to enable safe and efficient use of the region’s highways during summer months.

NZTA, this is a serious performance issue that should result in heads rolling.

John Kape