SH35 between Te Puia Springs and Tokomaru Bay will be closed overnight from 6pm today based on the latest weather warnings.
Metservice has upgraded its warnings for Hawke's Bay and Tairāwhiti and there's a continued risk of rising river levels, surface flooding and slips.
Waka Kotahi has made the decision to close the road and will reassess the closure at first light tomorrow once crews have travelled it.
Crews will continue to monitor the road this afternoon.
As the heavy rain continues, Waka Kotahi will be continuing to closely monitor all other parts of the network in Tairāwhiti and Hawke's Bay.
If you're planning travel, please visit our journey planner to check for latest updates, as the roads may need to close at short notice.
If you're driving these roads, please drive to the conditions, expect the possibility if surface flooding and take your time-please don't rush your journey.
