Northland drivers urged to take care on the roads tomorrow

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi | 20 Jan 2026 4:16pm | Northland

Following recent heavy rain across Northland, our contractors have been actively responding on the state highway network to ensure it remains safe and accessible for everyone.

With Heavy Rain Warnings currently in place for Northland, crews are monitoring the network, inspecting known at‑risk locations and clearing drains and culverts to help manage surface water.

Further rainfall is forecast for tomorrow, and road conditions may change quickly as the system moves through.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is urging drivers to allow extra time for their journeys and drive to the conditions.

Heavy rainfall can cause hazards such as fallen trees and branches, slips and erosion, flooding and surface water across the road and pavement failures.

It’s important that people increase following distances, reduce speed if conditions deteriorate, turn headlights on, even during daytime rain and be alert for the unexpected - you don’t always know what’s around the next corner.

Where possible, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain.