9 November 2018 | South Island

The NZ Transport Agency is advising road users to continue to drive with care, and to plan ahead for journeys today and over the weekend as severe weather continues to affect South Island roads.

NZ Transport Agency Systems Manager Pete Connors says SH73 from Arthurs Pass to Jacksons will not open over the weekend, with the next update at 12pm Monday, 12 November. There is an alternate route in place via Lewis Pass SH7, and drivers are advised to factor in an additional 90 minutes for their journeys.

Mr Connors says while the Goat Creek Bridge on SH73 remains intact, the western approach embankment of the highway has been washed away.

SH6 from Hokitika to Fox Glacier remains closed, and a further update on this section of road will be provided at 3pm today. SH6 from Franz Josef to Fox Glacier is now open.

Drivers are being urged to drive with extreme care and at safe speeds, as there will still be debris and surface flooding affecting many sections of road, with temporary speed restrictions and lane closures in place in several areas.

State Highway 1 on the Kaikoura remains open, but drivers are urged to stay up to date on weather conditions as heavy rain will set in this afternoon. If conditions deteriorate the road may be closed overnight as a precaution.

The Waimakariri Bridge on SH1 is being monitored closely, and remains open.

Mr Connors says surface flooding is also continuing to affect other sections of the West Coast Roads and around Canterbury, with South Canterbury Roads currently experiencing heavy rain.

“We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause, and we’re asking people to be patient and drive with extra caution. Our contractors are working hard to get the roads open again. Please add extra time to your journey and keep updated on the road conditions.”

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