#regional: Major Surface Flooding Shuts State Highway 1 at Oruanui, Taupō – Police Urge Public to Stay Off the Roads

Significant flooding is affecting State Highway 1 at Oruanui in the Taupō district, police confirm, with surface water covering the roadway and making travel hazardous.

Police began receiving reports of flooding on the national highway around 6.30pm on Friday night, with heavy rain overwhelming drainage and causing water to pool across the road surface.

There have been no reports of injuries at this stage, but conditions remain unstable and dangerous for motorists. Police are strongly advising people to stay sheltered and delay all travel in the area until conditions improve and the road is cleared.

The ongoing deluge across the central North Island has prompted weather warnings from MetService, including heavy rain alerts that remain active for parts of the Bay of Plenty and surrounding regions. These conditions have led to rapid rises in river and stream levels, contributing to widespread surface flooding.

Civil Defence and emergency crews are monitoring the situation closely. Road users are being reminded that even shallow floodwaters on highways can be treacherous – water on a road surface reduces traction, hides hazards such as debris or subsidence, and can sweep vehicles off the road.

Officials are urging residents and travellers to keep up to date with local weather and traffic information, plan alternative routes where possible, and prioritise safety over travel until floodwaters recede and SH 1 is confirmed safe to use again.

Waatea News will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.

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