Traffic is moving again on State Highway 20 but there is serious congestion on the transport network around Auckland Airport which is not expected to clear for some time
SH20 northbound was closed at the Neilson Street offramp for more than 90 minutes after a serious 4 vehicle crash near Queenstown Road at 3:30pm. All four lanes are now open.
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.
Traffic in the airport precinct is gridlocked, but expected to start moving again soon now that SH20 is open.
Motorists driving to or around the airport are advised they need to delay their journeys or plan ahead and allow plenty of time.
Traffic has built up throughout the afternoon 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.
That event is now ending and thousands of people are leaving on foot and in vehicles.
Ms Pani says motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.
“Please 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.”
“The alternative route to and from the airport is SH20A, but this is also heavily congested, so motorists planning to use this route need to be aware they could be delayed.”
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