Roading crews currently working to clear State Highway 3 at Awakino Gorge expect to be able to open it this evening.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is continuing to remind road users throughout Taranaki to drive with caution and be careful and alert to possible flooding and debris on roads.

As at 2.45pm:

• SH3 at Mt Messenger – southbound lane CLOSED. Stop/go traffic management is in place
• SH3 Awakino Gorge CLOSED between Oha Street and Papakauri Road but expected to be OPEN this evening
• SH43 Forgotten World Highway CLOSED (between Whangamomona and Taumaranui – although non-essential travel along the entire route is not advised).

Crews working at Awakino Gorge are currently clearing the last of the debris from the road and expect to be able to open it this evening. We will send a further update when the time is confirmed.

The southbound lane of State Highway 3 at Mt Messenger will remain closed over the weekend, with geotechnical experts examining the slip below the road. Please avoid unnecessary travel if possible, around Mt Messenger and expect delays of at least 25 minutes.

SH43 Forgotten World Highway will remain closed overnight and will be reassessed tomorrow.

Road users can keep up to date with the NZTA Journey Planner.