Severe weather and flooding have seen the closure of SH1 extended on the South Island’s east coast.
The midday update from Waka Kotahi says that the highway is now closed between Ward and Waipara.
All drivers must avoid using the route while the bad weather persists and official warnings remain in place. The Inland Kaikōura Road (Inland Route 70) is also closed due to slips and flooding.
Nelson St to close
SH6 / Nelson Street will also be closed in Blenheim from 1pm because of flooding – local road detours will be available.
Mark Owen, NZTA Regional Manager for Lower North Island/Top of the South, says it is critical that all road closures are obeyed.
“This is a significant and severe weather event. The closures are there for very good reasons – to keep people safe. Please respect them.”
He warns the SH1 closure is likely to be lengthy.
“We do not expect the flood levels in affected areas – the Conway River and the Kowhai River – to improve while the heavy rain continues. The route is expected to remain closed overnight.
“We appreciate State Highway 1 is a critical transport link. But safety has to be the priority. It will reopen when it is safe to do so.”
Closures as of Tuesday at 12:30pm:
