Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
As the heavy rain has continued today around Hawke’s Bay, we’re urging road users to expect the unexpected – the possibility for more silt, debris and slips.
State Highway update as at 2.30pm
SH2 between Wairoa and the Esk Valley turn off CLOSED
SH5 between Napier and Taupō CLOSED
SH38 between Lake Waikaremoana and Wairoa CLOSED
SH2 south from the Esk Valley turnoff OPEN
SH50 south from Napier OPEN
SH51 south from Napier OPEN
Napier-Taihape Road CLOSED
“As with many of these roads, there will be temporary speed limits and other controls in place, so please, if you’re travelling them, drive to the conditions,” says Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s Hawke’s Bay/Gisborne Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations, Jaclyn Hankin.
“We are closely monitoring the network during this weather; and we’re aware a number of those roads may have more silt on them, or debris. The heavy rain is falling on already very sodden ground and so there’s a very real potential for further hazards.
“Please continue to avoid travel if you can – if you must travel, please drive to the conditions.”
Please note this information can change rapidly – ensure you check the latest weather conditions with MetService, and consult the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner(external link) for the most up to date information on road closures.
For those who are unable to access the internet at this stage, please keep tuned to local radio for the latest Civil Defence advice.
Journey Planner is updated 24/7 by Waka Kotahi traffic operations centres and is the best source of the most recent and reliable information available on state highway closures and disruptions. Remember to refresh the page when checking the status of highways to ensure that the latest updates are displayed.
