A stretch of State Highway 45 south of Ōkato in Taranaki has closed following flooding this afternoon.

The area immediately surrounding Hangatahua River has flooded following an afternoon of heavy rain.

Crews are currently onsite and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is advising people to delay their travel and avoid the area until further notice.

A Metservice heavy rain warning remains in place for the area and drivers people are urged to drive to the conditions in other parts of the region.

Another update is planned for early evening.

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