Check the Traffic and Travel maps http://www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic on the Transport Agency web for updates. Black spots show the highway closures.
Many other roads may have debris or small rock falls and drivers are urged to take care and expect one lane with delays in some places.
The following State Highways are affected by high winds this morning:
- SH79 Geraldine to Fairlie
- SH73 Springfield to Arthurs Pass & Porters Pass
The following State Highways are closed or have lane restrictions.
- SH6 Murchison to Inangahua is down to one lane due to fallen trees.
- SH6, at Haast Pass, remains closed closed due to fallen trees. Check the web for updates on opening.
High sided vehicles and motorcyclists are urged to take extra care when driving in these areas, said Lee Wright.
West Coast update:
SH67 north of Westport: open with crews cleaning up debris in this area today. Manual stop/go traffic management.
Trees on road at Inangahua - final clear up today.
Trees and branches and water tables cleared through the Lewis Pass, SH7.
SH73 Arthur's Pass/ Otira – minor rockfalls around the Rock Shelter and Rocky Point – being cleared by crews.
Coast road between Greymouth and Westport – several slips will be cleared today. There is a slip at 10 Mile, due to be cleared this morning, the road is single lane until then.
Haast Pass:
About a dozen trees need to be cleared, hence closure of road overnight and this morning. Check the web for updates. Small slip on the Haast side of Evans Creek.