State Highway 35 at Matawhero, south of Gisborne, has reopened following an earlier serious crash involving a logging truck.

The road has been closed, since earlier this afternoon, in both directions from the intersection of SH35 and SH2 in the south, to Pacific Street in the north.

Police have now completed their scene examination, the truck has been removed and the road reopened.

Please drive to the conditions and take extra care.

Meanwhile, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is reminding drivers further north, on SH35 near Ruatoria, to drive to the conditions and be alert for possible flooding, as Metservice has an orange heavy rain warning in place.

The warning is in place from tonight through til tomorrow evening.

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

4.33pm:

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising road users that State Highway 35 is closed south of Gisborne following a serious crash involving a logging truck this afternoon.

The road is closed in both directions from the intersection of SH35 and SH2 in the south, to the intersection of SH 35 and Lytton Road in the north.

Police and emergency services are on scene.

The road is expected to remain closed for the afternoon to allow for recovery of the truck and its load.

There is no HMPV detour available during this closure.