Wild weather forces changes to Auckland Sheeran show

Gloomy, wet weather Auckland's Ed Sheeran concert. Photo: NZME
Gloomy, wet weather Auckland's Ed Sheeran concert. Photo: NZME
Wild weather has forced organisers of tonight's outdoor Ed Sheeran concert in Auckland to make changes due to safety concerns while traffic is crawling across parts of the Super City.

Rain, crashes and a number of big events around Auckland has caused major congestion this afternoon.

A car has crashed into a barrier on the Northern Motorway heading south, between Fanshawe St and the Harbour Bridge.

Another crash in Takapuna on the Northern Motorway near Esmond Rd is blocking one lane and traffic has banked up.

Traffic on the Southern Motorway from Ellerslie to Greenlane is particularly heavy.

NZTA traffic maps showed an average speed of about 32km/h down this stretch.

The Mt Wellington Highway by Sylvia Park is moving very slowly also, along with Ti Rakau Drive by Pakuranga Intermediate.

One motorist said drivers appeared to be getting quite frustrated on the roads.

"It was really heavy going south toward Mt Smart stadium, people were queuing over intersections trying to get through the lights. People were obviously getting frustrated with the traffic," a motorist told the Herald.

[[{"type":"instagram_post_url","src":"https://www.instagram.com/p/Bgsfr6ZBkhD/","odtEmbed":true}]]Some roads are closed around Mt Smart stadium.

The weather has also meant Ed Sheeran concert organisers have been forced to make changes to the concert set up.

Frontier Touring released a statement saying adverse weather conditions had impacted the production setup for Auckland's three sell out Sheeran shows.

"As a result, all three Auckland concerts will be affected with necessary adjustments made to the staging and screens to ensure the safety of the audience," the statement said.

Based on weather forecasts, Frontier Touring strongly advised fans to bring a poncho as umbrellas would not be allowed inside the venue; and to also allow extra time for travel to and from the venue.

Nearby businesses and residents are cashing in on the concert, with some charging $20 to park on their properties.

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