With Cyclone Vaianu forecast to bring high winds and rain to areas of Manawatū-Whanganui this weekend, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi and its crews are preparing for the potential impact that it may cause on the state highway network. 

Contractors across the North Island are currently readying the network to minimise the impact where possible, by clearing drains and culverts.

Conditions could change quickly, with the potential for flooding, slips and debris on roads.

Road users are urged to plan ahead, check weather forecasts before travelling and drive to the conditions. Consider whether travel is essential, allow more time for journeys, and be prepared for delays, detours or road closures.

NZTA will keep people informed as the event unfolds. The current status of the state highway network can be found via the NZTA Journey Planner.

Please follow the advice of Civil Defence and emergency services and keep up to date with the latest information on preparing for the cyclone via 

Manawatū-Whanganui Emergency Management’s (mwcdem.govt.nz)(external link)

Civil Defence Manawatū Whanganui (Facebook)(external link) 

With the arrival of April and cooler autumn weather, our summer renewals season is coming to an end, with fewer significant planned roadworks expected.  

You will continue to see roadworkers out on our state highway network, carrying out routine maintenance and essential work where safe to do so, responding to incidents, and making urgent repairs. Expect to see temporary traffic management, including stop/go and reduced speed limits at times. 

To keep up to date with roadworks in your region, sign up to your regional newsletter here: 

Manawatū-Whanganui state highway maintenance programme(external link)(external link)