Northland state highway update – flooding impacts

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi | 27 Mar 2026 8:33am | Northland

Multiple routes are reopening in Northland this morning, as floodwaters recede, while others remain closed for safety and assessment of damage.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has a large network to assess, with multiple crews driving the network and checking conditions to respond to impacts.

Road users should reduce speed and expect the unexpected. Be aware of sediment, debris, and surface flooding on reopened roads - conditions may still be hazardous.

Check the NZTA Journey Planner for the latest updates before heading out.

Current state highway status

Closed

  • SH1 Mangamuka Gorge – CLOSED
    • Pending geotechnical assessment
    • Some material is present behind barriers and minor debris on the road surface
    • Response teams are on route
  • SH1 Whakapara – CLOSED
    • Flooding has damaged the road surface on the bridge
    • Construction crews and engineers are already on route
    • Further information will be provided once assessments are complete
  • SH15 Pakotai – CLOSED
  • SH15 Parakao - CLOSED

Open

  • SH1 Rangiahua – OPEN
    • Floodwaters have receded
    • Road users should drive with caution as the road surface may be slippery
       
  • SH10 Kaeo –  OPEN
    • River Bridge open with caution
    • Surface water remains in places
    • Road users are asked to take care, reduce speed, and drive cautiously
  • SH1 Brynderwyn Hills – OPEN
  • SH1 Kaitaia between Matthews Ave and Rules Way – OPEN
  • SH12 Waimamaku - OPEN
  • SH1 Kaitaia between Larmer Rd and Fryer Rd - OPEN

More roads will reopen progressively as floodwaters recede and safety checks are completed. The latest information will continue to be updated on the NZTA Journey Planner throughout the day.

Please respect road crews while they carry out essential recovery work.