Multiple slips and surface flooding have now closed State Highway 3 at Awakino Gorge.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is urging caution on the roads around the region, following heavy rain throughout the afternoon.

As at 7pm:

• SH3 Awakino Gorge CLOSED between Awakino (Iredale Quay) and Papakauri Road
• SH3 Stratford between Flint and Pembroke Roads reduced to single lane
• SH45 Ōkato remains CLOSED

Road users are being advised to avoid these areas and delay travel.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is also reminding people to drive to the conditions in other parts of the region, as the rain is forecast to continue.

Please take care and be alert for other areas with flooding, fallen trees or debris.

Another update is planned later tonight. 

In the meantime, road users can keep up to date with the NZTA Journey Planner.