The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists to expect delays on State Highway 1 southbound due to a truck and digger hitting the Penrose overbridge.
The left lane is now open but two lanes remain blocked and traffic is heavy from Market Road and long delays are likely.
Drivers are encouraged to use an alternative route. They may like to consider using the South Western motorway (SH20).
Emergency services are at the scene and engineers will be assessing the bridge to check for structural damage, it could be some time before all lanes are reopened.
Heavy vehicles will be restricted from using the bridge until it has been assessed, and police will be detouring them either side of the bridge.
