Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
State Highway 2 between Wairoa and Napier has reopened following work to clear fallen debris this morning.
The state highway was closed yesterday evening following heavy and persistent rainfall, causing surface flooding and slips.
SH2 will be under temporary traffic control, so road users are reminded drive with caution, expect the unexpected and be prepared for delays.
A heavy rain warning remains in place for Hawke’s Bay until midnight on Saturday and until midday on Sunday for Tairāwhiti.
As at 11am:
- State Highway 5 Napier – Taupō Road CLOSED expected to open early afternoon
- State Highway 35 Gisborne to Ruatoria OPEN. SH35 will close at 5pm today and reopen at 8am Saturday, provided there is no further damage.
- SH2 Wairoa to Napier OPEN
- SH2 Wairoa to Gisborne OPEN
- SH2 Matawai to Ormond CLOSED
This afternoon, scheduled convoys will be taking place through the SH2 Matawai – Ormond closure.
The northbound escorted convoys will take place at midday, 2 pm and 4 pm. The northbound convoy will leave from Whatatutu Road.
The southbound convoy will be taking place at 1pm, 3 pm and 5 pm. The southbound convoy will leave from Matawai.
We ask that people wanting to use the convoys be there 10 minutes before departure time.
At this stage, we expect to repeat these convoys tomorrow.
“The weather conditions on the East Coast have caused slips, flooding and fallen trees. Contractors are working to clear the debris. Please expect delays on the roads that are already open, with traffic management in place,” says Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations Jaclyn Hankin.
“Given the forecast for more rainfall today, there is the potential for short-notice closures.”
People should continue to keep an eye on the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website for the latest information on road conditions.
