The Thames-Coromandel mayor says the reopening of State Highway 25A before Christmas is a beacon of hope for many local businesses.
The road, a key link to holiday homes in places like Whangamatā and Hahei, has been closed since January because of a massive slip.
The Thames-Coromandel Mayor Len Salt puts the cost to local economy at $30 million.
Salt spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.