MEDIA RELEASE

25 May 2013

NZ Transport Agency – Auckland Regional Office

King tides may cause motorway flooding in Auckland says NZTA

Strong winds, heavy rain and higher than normal tides are forecast for Auckland during the weekend and the NZ Transport Agency says drivers should take care on sections of the motorway network close to the Waitemata Harbour.

Heavy rain is predicted from midday on Saturday, and winds are forecast to reach gale force later that day. Stormy weather will coincide with king tides peaking at 3.5 metres – about half a metre higher than normal – on Saturday evening and again on Sunday morning.

The NZTA’s State Highways Manager for Auckland, Tommy Parker, says there is a risk the wind and tides may cause some flooding on low lying sections of the motorway network, particularly the causeway crossing the harbour on the Northwestern Motorway (State Highway 16).

“Weather can change dramatically, but we would advise drivers to be aware of the risk flooding and to take extra care – drop your speed by 10kph and increase your following distance,” Mr Parker says. “High winds will have a greater impact on wave splash, particularly at high tide.”

Mr Parker says all road users need to take care on exposed sections of the network, particularly the Auckland Harbour Bridge, during the strong winds, and to be aware of surface water because of the heavy rain.

More information on driving conditions is available at www.highwayinfo.govt.nz. People can also sign up for information about specific routes at www.onthemove.,govt.nz

ENDS

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