State highways closure update – many roads re-opened but caution urged

The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists that while several state highways have now re-opened to traffic, others remain closed due to the extreme weather conditions as heavy snow continues to fall in parts of the country.

Although road crews are working hard in difficult conditions to clear snow from key routes, some roads unlikely to re-open today.

Heavy snow, sleet and high winds are making conditions treacherous throughout the country. Motorists are urged to avoid all but urgent travel and to exercise extreme caution if they do need to drive.

Heavy snowfalls have closed most state highways in Southland and Central Otago, and some may remain closed all day. The only current weather-related state highway closures are:

• SH87 Outram To Middlemarch
• SH 85 Palmerston To Kyeburn
• SH2 Nuhaka To Gisborne
• SH2 Rimutaka Hill
• SH35 Waipiro

As snow is still falling in may areas, the situation on the ground remains fluid and conditions can change rapidly.

Although many roads have now been cleared, melting snow is expected to freeze overnight making for treacherous, icy conditions, and the NZTA urges motorists to limit travel to essential or emergency trips.

ENDS