Weather: SH33 closed from Paengaroa to Okere Falls, SH2 in Pukehina reopens

Police have requested road closures for safety reasons. Photo / NZME

State Highway 33 remained closed from Paengaroa to Okere Falls overnight due to several slips and fallen debris.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency said at 8.15pm Sunday the road would stay closed overnight due to multiple weather events and asked motorists to avoid the area.

State Highway 2 was now open under stop/go traffic management at the Kaikokopu Bridge at Pukehina. Delays are expected. It was previously closed because of a 100-metre stretch of flooding.

"We anticipate the flood water is at its highest now – but if the water rises we will have to fully close the road again," a Waka Kotahi media statement said.

UPDATE 8:15PM
The road will remain CLOSED overnight between Paengaroa and Tikitere, due to multiple weather events. Please avoid the area and consider delaying your journey. For overnight updates check our interactive travel map here: https://t.co/ovoYMnWCdh ^AP https://t.co/BHwA36L1h4

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Waikato/BoP (@WakaKotahiWaiBP) October 2, 2022

"To avoid the flooding, the detour for both directions is via read Wilson Rd, Old Coach Rd and Pukehina Station Rd."

State Highway 2 Waimana Gorge has reopened after multiple slips closed the road this morning between Station Rd, Tanetua and Woodlands Rd in Ōpōtiki. They have since been cleared.

Waka Kotahi advised driving conditions might be hazardous and to only drive if essential. Check the Waka Kotahi journey planner website for information on which routes are affected by recent bad weather.

Waka Kotahi thanked everyone for their patience and understanding while it worked to re-open roads in the region.