NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises motorists in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty to take care on the roads with heavy rain forecast.
In the Coromandel - locals and those heading away early for the school holidays should be especially careful tomorrow. Heavy rain is expected from 3am until around 3pm on Friday – with a risk of thunderstorms. Surface flooding and slips are possible and could make driving conditions hazardous.
A severe thunderstorm watch is also in place for the Bay of Plenty which could produce localised downpours. Drivers should be prepared for 80 to 140 mm of rain in parts of the region, especially about and east of Rotorua.
Drive to the conditions – watch following distances – and be prepared that there could be debris or pooling water on the road ahead.
NZTA is monitoring the conditions closely, receiving regular updates from MetService and working with local authorities.
Planned works around the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions are weather dependent, and given the severity of forecast weather, will be deferred to the next suitable day if required. Our crews are proactively monitoring the state highway network and will be ready to respond if needed.
As we head into the school holidays, expect to see more cars on the road. People are encouraged to keep a close eye on the weather forecast and plan ahead before starting any journeys throughout the region.
The NZTA Journey Planner contains the latest up to date road conditions, including any delays or road closures.
Journey Planner(external link)
The latest information on weather warnings and watches can be found at MetService.
MetService weather warnings(external link)
