- Video: NZTA
A key southern highway blocked by a slip has reopened this evening, but a section further north will be closed overnight because of the risk of flooding.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advised about 2.30pm that State Highway 6 was closed between Makarora and Lake Hāwea because of a slip across both lanes.
The slip occurred near the Flaxmill Creek Bridge, and crews had been dispatched to deal with it.
In an update about 5.30pm NZTA advised the road was clear.
"Some surface flooding remains in the area, so please drive with extra care."
NZTA this evening said that following the heavy rain it appeared a slip above the road had caused a blockage and the resulting build-up of water, mud and other material then came down on to the highway near the Flaxmill Creek bridge.
NZTA earlier advised of a closure from Makarora to Haast because of flooding and slips, but at 5pm the agency said that section was open, "contrary to the previous update".
"Following an assessment by contractors, it has been deemed this section of road does not require a closure, but road users are advised to travel with care on this route."
It comes amid heavy weather for much of the country, and downpours are expected across the divide in Westland, south of Hokitika, for the rest of the day.
MetService has an orange heavy rain warning in place for the area until 10pm.
Up to 150mm of rain is expected on top of what has already fallen and thunderstorms are possible.
SH6 to close further north
Meanwhile, NZTA has advised it is closing another stretch of State Highway 6 at the top of the South Island.
The agency said it was warning drivers access between Blenheim and Nelson would be cut tonight because of expected flooding.
NZTA Regional Manager for Lower North Island and Top of the South Mark Owen said weather and hydrology data showed flooding was expected to affect the highway near Canvastown.
"With this in mind, we have decided to close the highway between Dalton's Bridge (Canvastown) and Pelorus Bridge from 6pm tonight. It will reopen when it is safe to do so."
"This is first and foremost about keeping people safe. Flooded roads after dark are a significant danger. It is essential drivers respect the road closure and do not breach it," Mr Owen says.
Soft closures would be in place at Havelock and Rai Valley. Residents could travel beyond these points, but all other drivers wanting to travel between Blenheim and Nelson would have to detour via SH63 Wairau Valley, NZTA said.
This was a longer route and took extra travel time, it added.
- Allied Media/RNZ
