NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is preparing for the potential impact that Cyclone Vaianu may cause on the state highway network.

In partnership with MetService, NZTA is using available information to plan ahead. We encourage the public to use the time before the cyclone reaches New Zealand to prepare.

Northland is expecting strong winds and heavy rain from late tomorrow evening Saturday 11 April and throughout the day Sunday 12 April.

Contractors are mobilising resources in preparedness and are undertaking proactive maintenance (such as clearing drains and culverts) to minimise the impact where possible.

“Our teams are monitoring the network closely and standing by to attend to any slips, flooding, fallen trees or other events on the state highway network as soon as it is safe to do so. Drivers should expect possible disruption and plan accordingly,” says Kingston Brands, NZTA Journey Manager for Northland.

“Initial location forecasts appear to be have less rain than the last weather event, however soil saturation levels are high and winds are forecasted to be higher than previous events this year. This increases the likelihood of fallen trees.”

“Mangamuka Gorge and the Brynderwyn Hills have had considerable resilience works delivered in recent years. We will be monitoring these locations closely and proactive closures are possible based off weather conditions.”

“Road users should also watch out for locations that commonly experience surface flooding during heavy rain. These include SH1 Mangamuka and Rangiahua, Whakapara, SH10 Kaeo, and various locations on SH15 and drivers should take extra care when travelling through these areas.”

Storm surge and coastal inundation is possible near low lying coastal areas, such as SH11 Paihia Waterfront.

“We are urging people to drive to the conditions. Do not drive through floodwater and follow all road signs and instructions, noting ongoing road works will also be on parts of the state highway network,” Mr Brands says.

NZTA will keep people informed as the event unfolds. The current status of the state highway network can be found via the NZTA Journey Planner , and regular updates will be posted on the regional NZTA social media accounts.

Stay across Metservice https://www.metservice.com/warnings and Northland Civil Defence updates https://www.facebook.com/civildefencenorthland/.

© Scoop Media