Drive safely. Drive to the conditions overnight and tomorrow, ahead of a heavy rain warning for the region.

A Metservice orange heavy rain warning is in place for Gisborne and Tairāwhiti north of Tolaga Bay. The warning is effective from 10pm today until 8pm tomorrow (Friday 14 August).

There is also a heavy rain watch in effect between 2pm today and 9am tomorrow covering the west of Tairāwhiti, up State Highway 2 and into western Bay of Plenty.

Traffic bulletin: Drive to the conditions in the Bay of Plenty today

If you do need to travel over the next 24 – 48 hours, 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 the warnings in place, the rainfall levels and any possible slips or damage, such as fallen trees.

Crews are currently monitoring the region’s state highways, including Waioweka Gorge, and are on standby ready to respond to issues around the region.