Waka Kotahi is urging people to delay all non-essential travel with high winds, heavy rain, slips and floodings affecting highways in several regions.
Waka Kotahi’s National Emergency Response Team leader Mark Owen says several highways have been closed due to slips and flooding, with major disruption unavoidable given the scale of the severe weather.
Journey Planner road closures update(external link)
“Our crews are working hard to clear slips and re-open roads as soon as possible, but heavy rain and severe winds are still affecting many areas, and we need flood waters to recede in some areas before damage can be assessed.
“Driving conditions are hazardous in many areas, with the risk of surface flooding, slips, falling tree branches or power lines coming down, and people should avoid all non-essential travel in these areas.”
Mr Owen says the Auckland Harbour Bridge remains closed, with high winds continuing to affect the area.
Wind is currently gusting in excess of 105km/h on the bridge, and is expected to increase before abating this afternoon.
Waka Kotahi is working closely with MetService to monitor wind speeds, and road crews are ready to re-open the bridge as soon as the high winds have passed and it is safe for traffic to use.
A full list of current state highway road closures and warnings can be found here(external link).
Updates will also be provided as the situation unfolds on the Waka Kotahi Twitter(external link) account.
Information on weather warnings and watches is available from Metservice(external link).
