Auckland traffic halves

There are 50 per cent fewer cars than usual on the road in Auckland tonight, with a key part of the motorway system closed.

The southbound lanes of the Southern Motorway were closed at 5pm so the complex procedure of moving an 800-tonne gantry across the lanes could be carried out.

It will enable the opening of the new Newmarket viaduct.

The New Zealand Transport Agency says all detour routes are coping well, with no serious congestion reported so far.

Aucklanders are still urged to stay at home or take advantage of the free train service operating tonight and tomorrow.

- NEWSTALK ZB