People are being warned about significant congestion on State Highway 77 this afternoon as it is used by many as an alternative route to avoid a fatal crash closure on State Highway 1 at Rakaia.

Road users are reporting lengthy delays in the area near the Rakaia Gorge bridge, which offers an alternative crossing point to the SH1 Rakaia River bridge. People are encouraged to temporarily delay their travel in the area if they can.

Police’s Serious Crash Unit has been investigating at the crash site, just north of the Rakaia River bridge, and it is expected that State Highway 1/Main South Road may be able to reopen early this evening.

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