The road to Milford Sound has reopened after the blast site of an unstable section of rock above the western entrance to the Homer Tunnel is stable enough to allow traffic through the tunnel.
The New Zealand Transport Agency closed the road on May 23 from the eastern entrance of the Homer Tunnel due to concerns about the risk the 2000 tonne of unstable rock posed to road users.
Southland area manager Peter Robinson said in a statement the reopening was great news for the community and tour operators, ''who have had a tough few weeks while the road has been closed.
''We appreciate their support during this difficult period while we got this critical work done.''
The temporary portal extension at the western entrance to the Homer Tunnel will remain for another six to nine months.
Those planning to travel to Milford Sound should be able to enjoy the usual tour activities on offer.
However, because of the month-long road closure and the need to replenish supplies it may be a couple of days before the entire range of services such as full catering are back on stream, the agency statement said.
Visitors should check with tour operators to see what services are available.
A kiosk is also operating on the Milford Rd just out of Te Anau to provide travellers with information.
