While State Highway 73 has been cleared after a vehicle towing a fuel tank became stuck on Porter River Bridge, a different spill is now affecting traffic elsewhere on the highway.

A milk spill on SH73 near Parapet Rock, between Lake Pearson and Castle Hill, means that road users are being asked to stop on demand.

People should travel with care and be prepared for delays, alongside those already required from planned roadworks on SH73. 

UPDATE: 12pm – Further spill (milk this time) on SH73:

State Highway 73 has reopened after a vehicle blockage and minor fuel spill this morning. The road is now open under a temporary speed restriction of 30km/h.

The stretch of highway between Castle Hill and Springfield in central Canterbury, including Porters Pass, was closed after a vehicle towing a fuel tank became stuck on the one-lane Porter River Bridge, and a small amount of fuel – believed to be diesel – was spilled.

Road users are asked to take care travelling through this area.

9am – Spill closes SH73 at Porters Pass:

A spill has forced the closure of State Highway 73 between Castle Hill and Springfield in central Canterbury, including Porters Pass.

Roading crews for New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi are attending to the spill of diesel or oil on the highway and people are asked to avoid the area and delay their travel if they can.

An update will be provided as the road status changes.