Update 7:45 pm:
State Highway 60 has reopened following a fire earlier this evening.
A transformer fire was reported near the Blackbyre Road intersection shortly before six pm and the highway was officially closed at around 6:45 pm while the Fire Service attended the incident.
The highway reopened at approximately 7:40 pm.
7pm:
Drivers travelling between Richmond and Motueka on State Highway 60 will have to use local road detours tonight due to a fire on the route.
The highway is closed between Lansdowne Road and Swamp Road while the Fire Service attends a transformer fire near the Blackbyre Road intersection.
Local road detours are available.
Northbound traffic use State Highway 60, turn right onto Swamp Road, turn left onto Lower Queen Street, turn left onto Lansdowne Road, and then right onto State Highway 60. Reverse for southbound traffic.
Drivers are asked to avoid the area, follow the instructions of emergency services and use the available detour.
Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website.
