Transport Agency urging people to take care and plan ahead with severe weather expected to hit Wellington region overnight

The NZ Transport Agency is urging people in the Wellington region to keep a close eye on the latest conditions and consider alternative transport options for tomorrow morning with severe winter weather forecast to hit the region over the next several hours.

Road crews are on standby to respond to incidents throughout the region, but some disruptions are likely, and people are urged to check the latest conditions before travelling in the morning. 

State Highway 1: 

• Severe rain is forecast in Kāpiti, with the possibility of flooding affecting the Plimmerton roundabout and Gray's Road.
• Paekakariki Hill Road may experience winds gusting at 140km, which could potentially cause slips a
• Localised flooding is also possible on roads in Porirua and Churton Park area 

State Highway 2: 

• Flooding is possible between Ngauranga and Petone
• Block Road and River Road may flood, if river levels rise as predicted
• The Rimutakas and Kaitoke ranges will likely be affected by gusting winds, snow, sleet and driving rain.  The Rimutaka Hill road is likely to close overnight.   

State Highway 53: 

• The Waihenga Bridge may be flooded and closed early Thursday morning  

State Highway 58: 

• The road is likely to be affected by slips and surface flooding.

NZTA Regional Transport Systems Manager Mark Owen urged people to take extreme care while driving, and to consider using public transport or making other arrangements.

“The conditions on the roads are likely to be extremely difficult in many parts of the region, and we want to make sure that everyone stays safe. Crews will be working hard in the cold and rain to respond to the conditions and keep things moving, but it’s important for people to plan ahead and if you are driving slow down and take extra care.”

Further updates will be provided as more information comes to hand. You can also keep up with the latest information on Twitter(external link) and Facebook(external link).