Hawke's Bay

River levels are dropping in Hawke's Bay, after the region received less rain than forecast overnight, while a route is now open between Auckland and ...

The Hikuwai has begun to drop as rain has stopped in the area. SH16 is also closed today between Kaukapakapa and Tauhoa due to slips. Head for higher ground and stay away from floodwater. State Highway 35 is closed from Okitu to Uawa due to flooding at Rototahi, SH2 at Ormond is also closed. Act quickly if you see rising water do not wait for official warnings. Many of the callouts were to help people stranded due to slips and flooding on roads. Meanwhile, a route is now open between Auckland and Northland - after unprecedented rain in the area last night caused more flooding and slips. Police said the number of people who remained uncontactable in Hawke's Bay and Tairāwhiti following Cyclone Gabrielle was 13 at 9pm on Friday - that is down from 56 people on Thursday evening. "Most rivers are levelling off, however we do issue caution for the Mangaone river and for those working in this area, as the river will likely continue to rise for a few more hours." Traffic south of Gisborne can only get as far as Wairoa and the coastal route to East Cape is closed in a number of places due to slips and damaged bridges. Spokesperson Chris Dolley said small increases in the Ngaruroro and Tutaekuri rivers were not concerning and the council was continuing to monitor the Esk closely. Overnight rain caused some flooding near Te Karaka and while the Waipaoa River is receding, mud and silt is covering the road in a number of places.