State Highway 56 at Opiki near Palmerston North will reopen later this afternoon.

The highway has been closed since Monday night after heavy rain caused flooding in the area.

Crews have been monitoring the area and water levels have been dropping. The road will reopen after crews have completed a cleanup of the area.

Keep an eye on the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi Journey Planner for updates and drive with care once the road reopens.

8 Sept, 8.42am - SH56 to remain closed at Opiki today

State Highway 56 at Opiki near Palmerston North will remain closed today following heavy and persistent rainfall in the area yesterday.

The highway closed yesterday evening and remained closed overnight.

Crews will continue to monitor the site during the day. Water levels are expected to drop throughout the day.

Keep an eye on this website for updates.

Journey Planner - Manawatū-Whanganui region (external link)

7 Sept, 6.17pm - SH56 closed at Opiki after heavy rainfall

State Highway 56 at Opiki near Palmerston North has closed this evening as floodwaters continue to rise.

Heavy and persistent rainfall through Manawatū overnight has caused flooding in a number of places.

SH56 at Opiki will remain closed overnight and crews will reassess the situation in the morning.

Please drive with extra care on other state highways overnight and to the conditions and make sure to check Journey Planner or Facebook before you go for the latest state highway conditions.

• Journey Planner - Manawatū-Whanganui region (external link)
• Facebook - Manawatū-Whanganui & Taranaki (external link)

If you do need to travel, remember to switch on your headlights on, increase your following distance and be prepared for unexpected hazards in these conditions.

Please also be aware of the possibility of short notice road closures as we continue to monitor rainfall levels and any possible slips or damage, such as fallen trees.