NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is urging drivers to take extra care and be prepared for the possibility of short-notice lane closures or reduced speeds on the Auckland Harbour Bridge tomorrow (Thursday 1 May).  

Wind gusts of 75-89 km/h are forecast for the bridge between 4am and 9am tomorrow, triggering an amber alert. Between 9am and midday, gusts may reach 90-95 km/h, potentially triggering a red alert. 

Wind guests of 75-85km/h are forecast for between midday and 7pm, triggering another amber alert.

The bridge will remain in 4x4 configuration during peak traffic tomorrow. However, under an amber alert, speed limits may be reduced and some lanes on the bridge may close. Under a red alert, we may close all lanes on the bridge.

When wind gusts reach 90km/h, we close all lanes because it’s unsafe for any vehicle to be on the bridge and the bridge structure is vulnerable to vehicle impacts.

We don’t take the decision to lower speeds, close lanes or close the bridge lightly. Our priority is the safety of road users and the bridge structure.

Drivers of high sided vehicles and motorcyclists are advised to avoid the Auckland Harbour Bridge and use the western ring route on State Highways 16 and 18.

For up to date information about any restrictions on the bridge, please look out for the electronic message boards which indicate lane closures and reduced speeds and follow NZTA on Facebook and X.

• Facebook(external link)
• X(external link)

NZTA thanks everyone for their patience and understanding.