The NZ Transport Agency encourages travellers using State Highway 1 via Kaikōura to plan their journey given that heavy rain is forecast in the Kaikōura ranges for Tuesday and Wednesday this week.
As part of their severe weather warnings, the MetService is advising of heavy rain in the Kaikōura ranges from Tuesday afternoon and overnight.
NZ Transport Agency Networks Operations Manager, Tresca Forrester, says people should plan ahead if travelling on State Highway 1 via Kaikōura as closures could be in place.
“Travellers need to be aware that this area is vulnerable to severe weather causing rockfalls, surface flooding and small slips. If the rainfall levels eventuate, a decision to close the road overnight as a safety precaution will be made at 3 pm Tuesday (12 June). If closures are in place it is likely there will be a delayed opening on Wednesday morning because we will need to increase inspections of the route in the daylight hours, ’’ she says.
Transport Agency contractors continue to monitor road and weather conditions so they can quickly respond to any surface flooding, slips and rock falls.
“The road could also close at short notice during this time so please be prepared,” Ms Forrester says.
Travellers need to be aware that irrespective of weather forecasts, weather and road conditions can change rapidly.
Anyone planning a journey between Christchurch and Picton should always check at least two hours before travel www.nzta.govt.nz/p2c, or call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49).
For travellers between Christchurch and Picton check real time information: www.nzta.govt.nz/projects/kaikoura-earthquake-response/plan-your-journey/
Important information is also shared via the Transport Agency’s official Twitter and Facebook accounts listed here: www.nzta.govt.nz/contact-us/connect-with-us/
Drivers can also call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49) to speak to the call centre team for traffic and travel information.
Check the MetService: www.metservice.com/warnings/severe-weather-warnings(external link) for the latest severe weather warning and watches.
