A number of major roads in and around Noordland will remain closed this week after Friday’s heavy rains caused significant damage.
Mangawhai and Kaiwaka — just north of the Auckland border — were hit by “intense” downpours on Friday night, causing flooding and silting.
Northland Civil Defense Emergency Group is advising travelers to stay informed and adjust their plans as major roads around Mangawhai and surrounding areas remain closed until midweek and in some cases even longer.
Emergency group controller Graeme MacDonald said the downpours over Mangawhai have caused significant damage and despite contractors giving their all this weekend, options are still quite limited.
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“We know that there are many people living and working around the Mangawhai area whose normal routes are not available, as well as the freight industry and visitors to our region.
“We expect to have better options in this area by the middle of the week; however, it will be Friday before the official SH1 Brynderwyn detour route for light vehicles through Mangawhai and Waipu fully reopens.
Shane Whitmore/included
Waitei Road in Mangawhai was flooded on Friday evening after heavy rain in Auckland. Shane Whitmore described it as “carnage”.
Until then, unfortunately, all parties will have to make compromises. The damage to those roads is significant and we appreciate all the work done this weekend including the restoration of SH1 at Topuni by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency – Northland on Saturday morning.”
The Brynderwyns remain closed to all traffic and the diversion routes for all traffic between Auckland and Northland are SH12/14 via Dargaville. Paparoa/Oakleigh Rd is recommended for all heavy traffic with a temporary speed limit of 70 km/h.
Access to Mangwhai is only for local residents, workers and local freight carriers. Mangawhai Rd off SH1 near Te Hana is the only access point to Mangawhai on Mondays.
“There is still a single lane section of this road beyond an undersoil and there are concerns about further deterioration of this.”
Waipu Gorge Rd remains closed due to a slip during Cyclone Gabrelle.
Cove Rd from Mangawhai to Waipu is also not available as a detour route due to the Langs Beach Bridge being closed.
The Langs Beach Bridge has been assessed by a structural engineer and while there is no damage to the bridge structure, the abutments have been washed out and contractors are working to fill them. Pedestrians also advised not to use due to the risk of sidewalk collapse.”