Waihenga Bridge on SH53 between Martinborough and Featherston. Photo / NZME
Heavy rain warnings remain in place for parts of the North Island and South Island today as strong winds hit areas of the country south of Wairarapa.
Hundreds of homes are without power near Masterton, although work is under way to restore the electricity.
Wellington and Wairarapa can expect strong
northwest winds that may approach severe gales. The Canterbury high country and the Tararua District are under the same warning and the Tararua Range is under an orange heavy rain warning until 8pm.
MetService is forecasting 150-200mm of rain on top of what has already fallen, with peak rates of 20-30mm/h.
State Highway 53 has reopened southeast of Featherston, near Murphys Line, after downed power lines earlier closed the road. NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising motorists to allow additional time for travel through the area.
