A Bay of Plenty highway damaged by a prolonged storm event is now getting repaired.

The New Zealand Transport Agency is advising motorists that work will start on the repair of two retaining wall sites at Whitianga Bay and Houpoto on State Highway 35 from February 16 2019.

A prolonged storm event has damaged this section of the highway and caused the embankment to become unstable, says the roading organisation.

The NZTA says remedial work is required to be carried out to repair this damage and ensure the road is safe for everyone.

'Due to the complex nature of the repair, and the confined working area, the eastbound lane will be required to be closed to keep construction staff and road users safe.

'Work is scheduled between the hours of 7am-4pm, Monday to Friday, with potential for Saturday work if needed.

'The approximate duration of work to complete both repairs is about 8-10 weeks and is weather dependant.”

The Transport Agency would like road users to be aware that light vehicle traffic and trucks under 50 tonnes will still be able to pass through the work site, under 24/7 Stop/Go traffic management, but will be unable to accommodate over size heavy vehicles through the worksite during the construction period.

The alternative route for oversize heavy vehicles will be via SH2 at Opotiki, and SH35 via Gisborne.