Easter traffic: SH1 closed between Whangārei and Brynderwyn after downed power line

A downed power line has closed a section of a major Northland highway, hours before holidaymakers are set to hit the road for the long weekend.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) said a downed power line on SH1 has closed the road between Whangārei and Brynderwyn.

Traffic has started to back up near Ruakākā after the incident was reported by NZTA at 10.26am.

Motorists are being advised to follow the detour and allow extra time for their journey.

NZTA said travellers can avoid the incident by taking the northbound left turn on to SH12, right on to Paparoa Oakleigh Rd, right on to Mangapai Rd, and left on to SH1.

Southbound traffic is being advised to follow this detour in reverse.

Police have been approached for comment.

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