The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists travelling to and throughout the West Coast today (Wednesday 25 June) to take extreme care with the region being battered by strong winds and heavy rain.
There are strong wind warnings in place for State Highway 6 from Westport to Greymouth and Hokitika to Haast, as well as State Highway 73 from Darfield to Castle Hill.
The Transport Agency’s Canterbury/West Coast Journey Manager Lee Wright says there is surface flooding on State Highway 6 from Harihari to Haast and State Highway 73 from Otira to Kumara Junction.
Winds have brought a tree and some small rocks down onto SH6 near Punakaiki; the highway remains open.
“The storm weather conditions are starting to ease but we are asking all motorists to take extra care; we need everyone to slow down, drive to the conditions and be prepared for debris on the roads.”
She says the Transport Agency’s contractors have been on the road since early this morning checking for any hazards and working to keep the highways open.
For the latest on road conditions or hazards freephone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or website the website www.highwayinfo.govt.nz(external link)
For more information please contact:
Jan McCarthy
Media Manager - Christchurch
NZ Transport Agency
T: 03 964 2885
M: 021 427 442
E: jan.mccarthy@nzta.govt.nz
