Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is warning drivers in Otago and Canterbury to be aware of slips and possible washouts on a number of routes.
“These slips and rockfalls will continue this week,” says Graeme Hall, System Manager for Waka Kotahi in Otago and Southland. “We encourage everyone to check our traffic map before heading off so they know which routes are closed or will take longer.”
Waka Kotahi Journey Planner traffic updates(external link)
The Lindis Pass, SH8, between Omarama and Tarras, is the most slip-affected highway in the South Island/ Te Waipounamu currently. There are multiple slips and a bridge abutment needs a full inspection. It will be closed all day and overnight at least.
The Otago Regional Council is urging people to be cautious around rivers and low-lying areas. Rivers and streams around Central Otago and the upper Clutha continue to rise with the current deluges, expected to remain high today.
For details, see the links below.
Caution urged around many Otago waterways (Media release, 19 July 2022)(external link)
The Lindis Pass, Omarama to Tarras, SH8: Closed all day today and possibly into tomorrow. Multiple slips and a bridge abutment on the Otago side needs to be inspected today. “If the bridge abutment has to be repaired, it will keep the Lindis Pass closed into Wednesday,” says Mr Hall.
The Lindis Pass, Omarama to Tarras, SH8 – Journey Planner(external link)
SH6 Lake Hawea north to Haast: Closed due to fallen trees, flooding and strong winds after 7 am today.
SH6 Lake Hawea north to Haast – Journey Planner(external link)
Te Anau to Milford Sound Piopiotahi highway between Hollyford and Donne rivers, SH94: Closed due to avalanche hazard but likely to open at midday with avalanche clearing going well so far. After 6 pm, if open, chains will be needed. Next update midday today.
SH 94 Te Anau to Milford, between Hollyford and Donne River(external link)
Aoraki/ Mt Cook, SH80: Closed between Ben Ohau and Aoraki/ Mt Cook due to a slip this morning.
Aoraki/ Mt Cook, SH80(external link)
Omarama to Kurow, SH83: Flooding has closed this route since 7 am this morning.
Omarama to Kurow, SH83(external link)
SH77 Methven to the Rakaia Gorge: There is a closure on SH77 at one point currently, with a detour in place as below.
SH77 Methven to the Rakaia Gorge(external link)
Local road closure due to bridge washout, Lake Ohau Road near Twizel: This road/bridge closure is about 300 metres from SH8.
Waitaki District Council Facebook(external link)
Strong wind warnings for SH73 Arthur’s Pass and SH7 Lewis Pass
People with campervans, caravans, high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists need to take care on these two key alpine passes.
