Highway reopens to one lane south of Karamea, Buller, high wind warnings Kaikoura and Lewis Pass highways

Update 9.15 am, 12 May 2016

The highway between Hector, north of Westport, and Karamea is again open to traffic but down to one lane after heavy rain caused flooding and debris washouts in several places last night. The road reopened to single lane at 8 am today.

There were multiple washouts between Hector and Mohikinui, NZ Transport Agency contractors report and the highway was closed north of Hector overnight.

"Minor slips up the Coast Road have been cleared but we are aware more rain has been forecast for later this morning,” said Lee Wright, NZ Transport Agency Journey Manager. “Drivers are urged to take care near machinery and crews clearing the road. Visibility may be poor.”

Check this map on the Transport Agency's Traffic and Travel web pages for updates of the area: http://www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/regions/12

Last night’s debris slip at Mussel Point, north of Seddonville:

High wind warning

Stormy weather is expected across the South Island today and drivers of high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are warned to take care along State Highway 1, Kaikoura to Blenheim and State Highway 7, Springs Junction to Hanmer Springs (Lewis Pass).

• 11 May, 2016, media release on closure of State Highway 67 : http://www.nzta.govt.nz/media-releases/flooding-closes-state-highway-north-of-westport-hector-to-little-wanganui/

ENDS

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