Limited traffic access is expected to resume on State Highway 6 between Makarora and Lake Hāwea from Tuesday, following progress clearing about 30 slips from the route.

NZ Transport Agency said roading crews had cleared many of the slips, while geotechnical engineers had assessed the risk of further rocks and debris falling onto the highway.

A limited number of escorted convoys are now planned each day, with timings and access details expected to be confirmed later on Monday.

The highway has been closed since Friday morning after heavy rain loosened material on surrounding hillsides, bringing down rocks, water and debris at about 30 locations.

A full reopening is not yet considered safe.

Weather conditions will determine whether the escorted convoys can proceed. MetService road snowfall warnings remain in place for the region until Monday evening, although conditions are forecast to improve on Tuesday.

Heavy rain predicted from Wednesday could force the highway to close again because of the risk of further slips from already saturated hillsides.

Roading crews have worked throughout the weekend to clear debris, including around The Neck, but have had to proceed cautiously as further material continued to fall at some sites.

NZTA said crews would continue working towards fully reopening the highway and would maintain contact with emergency services about access during the closure.

Two vehicles and their occupants were initially trapped within the closed section when the slips came down on Friday. They were escorted out safely later that day, with everyone accounted for.

NZTA thanked motorists and affected communities for their patience while crews continued working around the clock to restore safe access.