SH2 “Carnage”: Dozens of Windscreens Smashed at Waipawa Roadworks
By Lions Roar Aotearoa News Traffic Bureau
WAIPAWA, NEW ZEALAND — Sunday, February 8, 2026 — Local glass repair shops are reporting “unprecedented carnage” after a stretch of state highway roadworks north of Waipawa left dozens of vehicles with shattered windscreens and chipped paintwork.
The damage occurred along a section of State Highway 2 between the 100km/h zone north of Waipawa and the town clock. Local businesses say they have been overwhelmed by the volume of repairs following work carried out on January 29 and 30.
1. “Never Seen Anything Like It”
The scale of the damage has caught even industry veterans by surprise:
- Novus Glass Waipukurau: Repaired or replaced over 30 windscreens in just two days. The shop is now fully booked for the next two weeks.
- CHB Glass: Reported at least eight emergency requests in a single day—a volume described as highly unusual for the area.
- Vehicle Damage: Beyond glass, motorists are reporting “shovel loads” of loose chip being cleared from suspension, brakes, and inner guards.
2. The NZTA Response: Standard Practice vs. Driver Reality
The nightwork, funded by NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) and executed by contractor Higgins, involved a “second coat seal.”
Martin Colditz, NZTA System Manager, explained that this second coat is vital to waterproofing the road and preventing future potholes. However, the explanation has done little to soothe frustrated locals.
- The “Reasonable Care” Defense: NZTA has already declined some compensation claims, stating that the contractor (Higgins) “fulfilled its obligations to maintain a safe worksite” and acted “reasonably and diligently.”
- Speed Limits: While a 30km/h temporary speed limit was in place, residents like Sam Johnstone claim that even at 15km/h, stones were “flying everywhere.”
3. Mayor Steps In as Frustration Boils Over
Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor Will Foley has acknowledged the community’s anger, noting that roadworks in the area have felt “almost continuous” over the past year. Foley has passed the feedback to NZTA and is scheduled to meet with MP Mike Butterick to discuss the fallout.
For now, the advice for drivers remains the same, albeit frustrating:
- Increase following distances significantly.
- Stick strictly to temporary speed limits, even if the road appears clear.
- Check your insurance: Most standard policies include glass cover, which may be the fastest route to repair while the legal battle over liability continues.
