NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is urging drivers travelling throughout Tairāwhiti to be extra cautious from this afternoon with a heavy rain warning in place.

Metservice has issued the following orange warning for the region:

• Tairāwhiti north of Tokomaru Bay: For 18 hours from 3pm today (Wednesday) til 9am tomorrow (Thursday) – heavy rain forecast

Recent rainfall in the area has made the ground surrounding the roads sodden and we’re advising all road users to take care on the roads and be alert for any surface flooding, from rising rivers and streams nearby.

It’s really important to drive to the conditions, and adjust your speed; turn your headlights on and adjust your following distance when you need to. 

SH2 through Waioweka Gorge remains closed so if you’re heading to Gisborne, please allow extra time over the coming days. SH2 between Napier and Gisborne is likely to be busier as is SH35, so take your time, and if you see any signs of slips or flooding that crews aren’t at, please report them via 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 449).

If you are traveling the network, please adhere to any temporary traffic management or speed restrictions that may be in place. 

Keep up to date on the NZTA Journey Planner for any changes to the highway network.