With forecasts predicting a sizzling summer, drivers are being asked to exercise caution due to tar seal on roads melting and lifting.

The areas most affected are those sections of road which have been recently resealed. One of these areas is down Marine Parade from the Gaiety to Murrae street.

Wairoa District Council Engineering Manager, Jamie Cox, says “this is a pretty common issue in the industry.”

“New chip has been spread on these sections in anticipation of the summer season and the increased traffic and pedestrian volumes.”

Drivers are asked to take particular caution on these sections of road and pedestrians are advised to avoid walking through the runny tar as much as possible to avoid tracking it into shops.

“A contributing factor to this issue is drivers turning their steering while the car is still stationary. Because the tar is hot and runny, this lifts the chip and affects the pavement.”

“Council is spreading additional chip on the worst affected areas in an attempt to reduce the tar nuisance within the town, we hope that this will alleviate the problem over summer.”

“The tar seal will settle over time,” says Mr Cox.

For more information:

Kitea Tipuna

Communications Strategist

Wairoa District Council

06-838-7309

5 July 2016

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