State highway work updates
A temporary roundabout will be installed this week at the intersection of Ngaumutawa Rd and State Highway 2 [SH2] in Masterton. Waka Kotahi NZTA said the work would take place overnight mid-week, with the temporary roundabout in place until early July. With regard to the Norfolk Rd/SH2 roundabout, the transport agency said a base layer of asphalt would be laid as weather conditions permitted, and motorists should expect work at the third roundabout at Wiltons Rd/SH2 to continue throughout this month. Next Monday, May 15, would see construction on the central median barrier between Norfolk and Wiltons roundabouts begin, with the work taking place overnight. Finally, NZTA said sealing would take place on the southbound lane of SH2 near Clareville, and work to widen the road opposite the turnaround facility next to the Clareville Saddlery would continue in addition to a “turn pocket” for vehicles turning right.
Slash and burn
Thick smoke from a slash fire blocked visibility on SH2 north of Masterton. The driving hazard between Paierau and Mikimiki roads had emergency services in attendance managing traffic from 11.30am yesterday until after 2pm. Fire and Emergency confirmed Masterton Fire Brigade was at the scene working for more than two hours to extinguish the fire.
Duck hunting season starts
It’s open season on ducks, which means gunshots are popping off across Wairarapa. Police have confirmed at least one report of gunfire at the weekend was likely to be related to duck hunting. Police responded to reports of gunshots on Black Rock Rd on the outskirts of Masterton shortly after 11pm on Saturday. “Police attended and it was established this was likely duck shooting.”
Rural reserves
In its upcoming meeting agenda, Carterton District Council has noted a new picnic table and compostable toilet will be installed at the Kokotau River reserve, and that work remains in progress for native tree planting to take place at Nga Tawhai reserve this winter. The council also said a freedom bylaw has been developed and will be going out for consultation prior to council approval.
