The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has shut down a stop-and-go operation along a detour in Rotorua after roadworkers were shot at with a BB gun and threatened in what's being described as "disgraceful" behaviour.
Waka Kotahi Bay of Plenty and Waikato regional relationships director David Speirs said the work programme on State Highway 5, the Old Taupo Rd, at the Utuhina Bridge is running ahead of schedule. Speirs said providing there are no "unforeseen issues" the State Highway will reopen on Thursday.
But what usually would be a straightforward element to roadworks has turned sour after what Waka Kotahi said was "disgraceful" behaviour.
Speirs said the transport agency deployed stop-and-go workers along the detour as a "proactive measure" to improve traffic flows during peak travel times.
"The stop/go traffic management was in operation between 7am and 9am and between 2 and 4pm to accommodate traffic for school drop off/pick-ups this week to help keep drivers and children safe and traffic moving."
But on Monday, Waka Kotahi contractors who were helping with traffic management were shot at with a BB gun from a passing vehicle.
The following day, the same car went through the detour again and Speirs said the occupants "yelled abuse and threats" at the contractors.
"This behaviour is disgraceful. While there were fortunately no physical injuries, the incidents have been very traumatising for the workers affected."
As a result, Speirs said Waka Kotahi has ceased the stop-and-go operations along the detour for the remainer of the week.
"Unfortunately, this will result in increased congestion and delays through the detour routes during peak times. The abusive behavior of a few has risked the safety of others and will negatively impact on everyone."
Speirs urged all road users to "treat road workers with respect".
"They are doing their part to keep road users safe and in turn they deserve a safe working environment."
Waka Kotahi said a report has been filed with the police.
"A person has been spoken to by police and formally warned following Monday's incident, in which it was reported that a BB gun was discharged in the direction of traffic management personnel," Rotorua acting area commander Insp Jamie Keenleyside said.
"In yesterday's incident a BB gun was not sighted or discharged, police enquiries are continuing.
"No charges [have been] laid at this time, although this is not being ruled out.
"This type of offending, which has the potential for someone to be harmed, is absolutely unacceptable, [and] no one should be threatened especially when they are doing their jobs."
