SH1 between Puhoi and Orewa to remain closed until further notice

The NZ Transport Agency has confirmed that State Highway 1 north of Auckland between Puhoi and Orewa will be closed for an extended period today following a police incident.

Auckland Transport Operations Centre Manager Rua Pani is advising road users to delay or avoid travel in this area, until State Highway 1 reopens.
“State Highway 16 is the only alternative route for north-south traffic. There is no north-south access via the Hibiscus Coast Highway or east coast roads,” Ms Pani says.

“SH16 is not designed for large volume of traffic that may try to use it today so there will be congestion and delays.”

“We understand the inconvenience this will cause for road users and the significant impact it may have on Easter congestion.”

Motorists who must use SH16 are advised to leave SH1 at Silverdale or Warkworth. Motorists will be able to continue on SH1 north to reach the beachside communities at Orewa and Whangaparaoa and south to reach Warkworth, but there will be no through traffic.

“Police are conducting a criminal investigation at the scene of the incident and it’s likely to take most of the day,” Ms Pani says.

“If you do have to travel, please be aware that SH16 will also take longer than usual. Drivers should take extra care and allow extra time for their journey.”
The Transport Agency thanks drivers for their patience and understanding.

The following diversions are in place:

SH1 Northbound: Traffic is advised to exit at Silverdale, turn left onto Dairy Flat Hwy, right onto Kahikatea Flat road, right onto SH16 and travel north to Wellsford. Motorists can use West Coast Road to Warkworth however there are narrow bridges on this route. SH1 will remain open at Silverdale to allow access to Silverdale and Whangaparaoa however the SH1 is closed at Orewa.

SH1 Southbound: Traffic is advised to exit SH1 at SH16 Wellsford, head south to Kahikatea Flat Rd back to Silverdale or carry on south to the SH16 North Western motorway. SH1 southbound is closed at Woodcocks Rd in Warkworth detour to SH16 via West Coast Rd.

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