Flooding: Roads waterlogged

State Highway 1 is experiencing significant flooding in the Orauanui, Taupō area.

Police began receiving reports of flooding around 6.30pm on Friday night.

“No one has been reported to be injured,” Police say.

Police were advising the public to stay sheltered and delay travel.

The MetService has a heavy rain warning in place for Taupō until 6am on Saturday morning.

9.25pm: Civil Defence Taupō Tree down on Whangamata oad just before the Hitiri Rd intersection.

“Heads up, Stay off the roads everyone,” Civil Defence Taupō says on it Facebook page.

“Kia ora, good evening everybody. We're receiving reports of surface flooding and some roads being affected by heavy rain around the district.”

“Please, stay off the roads if you can.

“We've had reports of damage to Waipapa Rd near Mangakino. Crews are on their way - please avoid this area

“We've also heard there is some surface flooding in Mangakino too. Keep an eye on the MetService New Zealand updates, keep yourself and others safe and take the time to get a grab bag ready in case you need it. You can find more info here: https://getready.govt.nz/

Roads affected

MANGAKINO: Flooding on Waipapa Rd between Mitchell Rd and Lake Rd. Multiple slips on Waipapa Rd.

BROADLANDS RD: Flooding across southbound lane of Broadlands Rd around 14km from Taupō.

TUTUKAU RD: Flooding near the intersection of Orakei Korako and Tutukau Rd.

Civil Defence advice for flooded roads

Never try to drive through flood waters. Most deaths from floods are vehicle related.

If you come to a flooded area, turn around and go another way.

Avoid already flooded areas, and areas subject to sudden flooding. Do not attempt to cross fords, flowing streams or water-covered roads.

If your vehicle stalls during a flood, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.