Civil Defence bans truck and trailer units from Cove Rd route after blockage

A truck and trailer blocking Cove Rd. Photo / Supplied

The main route from Auckland to Whangārei - with State Highway One closed through the Brynderwyns - has now been cleared after being blocked by trucks earlier today.

Police confirmed around 2pm the road was clear. However, Northland Civil Defence has now issued an immediate ban on truck and trailer units using the alternate route.

Graeme MacDonald, Group Controller for the Northland Civil Defence Emergency Management Group, formally directed that truck and trailer units are restricted from using the Waipu Cove Road between Mangawhai and Waipu.

Travellers earlier reported being turned around on Cove Rd at Langs Beach due to the blockage.

Police confirmed the road’s northbound lanes were blocked by two trucks between Waipu and Mangawhai.

Truck drivers had been asked not to use the road and were instead asked to detour via SH12/SH14 through Dargaville.

A police spokesperson said they were anecdotally aware of heavy vehicles using the Cove Rd/Mangawhai detour despite previous warnings.

“Police continue to strongly urge heavy vehicles to avoid using Cove Road,” they said.

“This route is not suitable for heavy vehicles, and continued use will contribute to further damage and delays. For the safety of all road users, please use an alternative route.”

Waka Kotahi advised of delays on the route and advised people to delay their journey or consider travelling via SH12/14.