Motorists advised to take care on wet roads

Storm - Emily St

Waka Kotahi NZTA has been keeping a close eye on a number of already-sodden parts of the state highway network in Tairāwhiti overnight and today.

The close monitoring is due to the MetService heavy rain warning.

“Crews have been on standby throughout SH35 and SH2 in case the rain washes debris on to the road and causes surface flooding,” a Waka Kotahi spokesman said.

“We’d like to remind road users to plan their journeys and expect the potential for short-notice closures if the heavy rainfall reaches a point where it necessitates a closure for the safety of all road users.

“Closing the road is always a last resort and we want to thank road users and communities for their continued understanding,” he said.

“Please drive to the conditions if you’re out and about over the weekend.”

The NZTA message has been echoed by Gisborne District Council.

“Our rural road network is still fragile.

“Take care when driving and be alert for surface flooding and slips.”

■ Local road info https://www.gdc.govt.nz/…/roads-and-roadsi…/road-information

■ State highway info https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/regions/gisborne