Big chill keeps Central North Island state highways closed

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Motorists are being encouraged to delay their travel where possible as state highways throughout the Central North Island remain closed this morning due to snow and ice.

UPDATE 3: 12.05pm, TUE 10 AUGUST: State Highway 1 has reopened between Waiouru and Rangipo (Desert Road). State Highway 47 has also reopened. However, State Highway 4 is now closed between Tohunga Junction and National Park due to a crash.

UPDATE 2: 11.15AM, TUE 10 AUGUST: State Highway 4 and State Highway 41 are now open.

UPDATE 1: 11AM, TUE 10 AUGUST: State Highway 49 is now open. State Highway 1 has also reopened between Taihape and Waiouru, but remains closed between Waiouru and Rangipo (Desert Road).

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises the following roads are currently closed:

  • Napier–Taihape Rd
  • State Highway 4 Tohunga Junction to National Park due to a crash.

The following roads are now open:

  • State Highway 1 Waiouru to Rangipo (including Desert Rd)
  • State Highway 1 Taihape to Waiouru
  • State Highway 4 Tohunga Junction (Ohakune) to National Park
  • State Highway 5 Napier–Taupō
  • State Highway 41 Manunui to Kuratau
  • State Highway 47 Rangipo to National Park
  • State Highway 49 Waiouru to Tohunga Junction (Ohakune)

Motorists are encouraged to delay their travel where possible. Detours are via State Highway 3 New Plymouth or SH5 Napier and will add significant time to a journey.

Those who are travelling should expect winter driving conditions and keep their speeds down, maintain a safe following distance and stay alert. People can also check the Waka Kotahi Facebook, Twitter and Journey Planner webpages for the latest weather and road conditions before setting out.

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey. Keep up to date with:

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