Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Waka Kotahi will be closing parts of the state highway network in Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay following heavy rainfall, causing flooding and slips.
- State Highway 35 from Okitu just north of Gisborne and Ruatoria is now closed
- State Highway 2 north of Gisborne between Matawai and Ormond is now closed
- SH2 south of Gisborne between Whirinaki and Wairoa will close at 5pm
These roads will remain closed overnight and the closures will be reassessed at first light tomorrow.
Heavy rainfall warnings are currently in place for Tairāwhiti ( until midday Sunday) and Hawke’s Bay ( until midnight Saturday).
Waka Kotahi Hawke’s Bay / Tairāwhit System Manager Martin Colditz says all parts of the network will be closely monitored.
“We may need to close other parts of the network if the rain causes more flooding and slips on those roads. In particular, we have concerns about State Highway 38 and State Highway 5 and may need to close these roads at short notice.
“People should avoid unnecessary travel. Those who need to travel should take care, drive slowly and keep an eye on the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website(external link) for the latest information on road conditions, before heading out.
“With the rain we’ve had overnight, there’s surface flooding and slips in places, and road users need to drive to the conditions and expect the unexpected,” says Mr Colditz.
