State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill remains closed this evening as severe gales continue to affect the route.

Metservice weather data shows wind gusts of up to 141 km/h have been recorded at the Remutaka Hill summit.

The road closure remains in place until further notice. The highway will reopen when winds drop, and it is safe to do so.

Updates on the highway’s status can be checked on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website. 

With strong winds continuing to affect the Wellington and Wairarapa regions, drivers are urged to drive to the conditions, be prepared for weather-related driving hazards, and to check road conditions before they travel.

4:45 pm:

With strong winds affecting the Wellington region, State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill has been closed to all traffic.

The closure is required for safety reasons, and the route will reopen when winds ease, and it is safe to do so.

Drivers should avoid the area and use an alternative route.

With the Remutaka Hill closed the only other routes between  Wellington and Wairarapa are State Highway 3 Te Ahu a Turanga or the Pahiatua Track.

These are significantly longer detours and take longer to travel. 

A MetService Strong Wind Warning is in effect for the Wellington, Wairarapa, and Tararua  regions until tomorrow. Road users are urged to drive to the conditions and take extra care on the roads.

Drivers of high-sided vehicles (trucks, vans, campervans), light vehicles, and motorcycles must exercise caution – particularly on exposed routes.

Updates will be provided when the highway’s status changes. Drivers should check road and weather conditions before they travel.