Waka Kotahi will be closing parts of the state highway network in Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay following heavy rainfall, causing flooding and slips.
Update 6pm:
State Highway 5 Napier – Taupō Road has now been closed following a slip at Titiokura. As with all other current closures, SH5’s closure will be reassessed at first light tomorrow.
22 June 2023 4:05 pm:
These roads will remain closed overnight and the closures will be reassessed at first light tomorrow.
Heavy rainfall warnings are currently in place for Tairāwhiti ( until midday Sunday) and Hawke’s Bay ( until midnight Saturday).
Waka Kotahi Hawke’s Bay / Tairāwhiti System Manager Martin Colditz says all parts of the network will be closely monitored.
“We may need to close other parts of the network if the rain causes more flooding and slips on those roads. In particular, we have concerns about State Highway 38 and State Highway 5 and may need to close these roads at short notice.
“People should avoid unnecessary travel. Those who need to travel should take care, drive slowly and keep an eye on the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website for the latest information on road conditions, before heading out.
“With the rain we’ve had overnight, there’s surface flooding and slips in places, and road users need to drive to the conditions and expect the unexpected,” says Mr Colditz.
