UPDATE 8:25 am

Water levels in the Ruamahanga River have receded and State Highway 53 has reopened  at Waihenga Bridge.

However, flooding is still present, and traffic management is in place. Drivers can expect stop/go traffic controls and a 30 km/hr temporary speed limit. Care is needed on this route,

9 July 6:45 am:

Rising water levels have closed the Waihenga Bridge on State Highway 53 near Martinborough overnight.

The bridge, over the Ruamahanga River, was closed at around midnight. It will remain closed to all traffic until flood levels recede and the bridge is safe to reopen.

While a Heavy Rain warning for Wairarapa has been lifted, rain is still forecast for the region this morning. At this stage, there is no estimated time for when the highway will reopen.

With flooding and slips also closing usual local road detour routes, drivers are asked to avoid the area or delay their travel.

Meanwhile, a Strong Wind Warning remains in place for Wellington and the Kāpiti Coast until 3 pm today. Severe gale south to southeast winds gusting 120 km/h are forecast.

Drivers must be prepared for weather hazards – treefalls, downed powerlines, and windblown debris – and should drive to the conditions, particularly on exposed routes. Drivers of high-sided vehicles and motorbikes should take particular care.