State Highway 20 northbound has been closed at the Neilson Street offramp after a serious crash involving 4 vehicles near Queenstown Road. The crash is adding to significant congestion on the transport network.
There is already significant congestion on SH20, SH20A and SH20B to and from Auckland Airport because of a large gathering at the Manukau Memorial Gardens. The Gardens are by the SH20 and SH20B interchange.
The crash on SH20 has backed up northbound traffic to Puhinui, says Auckland Operations Manager Rua Pani.
Traffic from the airport on SH20A is backed up to Landing Drive.
Motorists driving to or around the airport are advised that they need to delay their journeys or plan ahead and allow plenty of time.
Thousands of people have been heading to the Gardens for a burial event which was due to start at 4pm. Many people are still arriving at the venue.
“It’s not clear how many people are planning to attend, but the 4pm timing of the event coincides with the start of evening peak traffic so motorists can expect extended congestion and delays in the area.”
The Memorial Gardens service is expected to last about an hour and then people will leave, adding to the congestion, which will continue for some time.
“The alternative route to and from the airport is SH20A, but this is also subject to congestion, so again motorists using this route need to plan ahead and be aware there could be delays.”
Anyone in the Auckland Airport area is advised to avoid the roads around the Manukau Memorial Gardens and avoid using SH20B or SH20A.
Motorists are advised to take care and look out for pedestrians around the SH20/20B interchange as there are many cars parked on the road sides and on motorway off ramps.
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