The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists that the Karangahake Gorge on State highway 2 between Waihi and Paeroa is closed due to rising river levels through the gorge.
Heavy rain warnings for the Coromandel have been issued and are expected to affect the area over the next 24 hours.
Motorists are advised to use either SH29 via Tauranga or SH25A between Kopu and Hikuai as alternative routes and avoid SH2 through the Karangahake Gorge until flood waters recede.
The Tairua River at Hikuai on State highway 25 is also being monitored as levels rise however high tide has passed and water levels are not expected to affect the road over the next few hours.
“The NZTA are closely monitoring all roads within the Coromandel area with heavy rain due to continue to fall in the area until tomorrow morning." says the NZTA's Acting Regional State Highway Manager, Karen Boyt.
"We urge all drivers to continue to take extreme care in the region, drive to the conditions, and allow more time for their journeys so that they can reach their destinations safely."
Mrs Boyt say’s before starting their journeys people should check with the NZTA's freephone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or 0800 44 44 49, or its website www.highwayinfo.govt.nz for up-to-the-minute info on road conditions.
