Huka Falls Road to be closed periodically

Huka Falls Road will be periodically closed to through traffic for three weeks from November 25 between 6am – 5.30pm, Monday – Saturday to allow for a footpath extension between Huka Lodge and the Huka Falls carpark entrance.

In 2018, council created a 1.5m wide concrete footpath along part of Huka Falls Road, with plans to eventually extend the path on to the Huka Falls.

While the works begin next week, the road will remain open until November 25.

Head of operations Kevin Strongman said this part of the extension will complete the final phase of the footpath.

“Once finished, the new footpath will be a great addition to the area.

“It will start from opposite Clearwater Lane and run 2.5km along the road, past Hipapatua Recreation and Reserve and onto the falls,” he said.

Temporary diversions will be put in place while the work is underway, with access still available to Huka Lodge at all times from the southern end of Huka Falls Road (where the lookout is).

Access to the Huka Falls themselves will also be available at all times from the northern end of Huka Falls Road, where Kefi at the Hub is located, to Huka Falls from Taupo.

An alternative route for pedestrians and cyclists will be signposted via the riverbank route and Spa Thermal Park.

Signage will be set up at both ends of Wairakei Drive informing motorists of the closure.

Pedestrians and cyclists on Huka Falls Road can divert through the Redwoods track and Kev’s track to bypass the worksite.

“Thank you for your patience as we work to create the footpath for everyone to enjoy.”