The NZ Transport Agency is advising travellers in Otago and around Dunedin to avoid any non-essential travel today and tonight as flood waters cover highways.
Strong winds are bringing down branches in many places making driving hazardous.
There is also snow on SH8 in Canterbury, between Fairlie and Twizel.
Highway closure SH90:
Flooding Dunedin, SH88 down to one lane
SH88, between Ravensbourne and Port Chalmers, is flooded in several places with small slips as trees have come down. The wind is very strong and only essential travel is advised, says Nick Rodger, NZ Transport Agency Maintenance Contract Manager. The road is currently passable but one lane in some places.
Area flood warnings are in place for many other Otago highways:
Snow and ice warning:
http://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/regions/13(external link)
Drivers can get real time information from:
Otago Regional Council links:
Dunedin City Council flooding updates: