Taranaki state highway update

14 October 2025

Heavy rain and slips close state highways around Taranaki

Heavy rain and slips are causing significant disruption across the state highway network in Taranaki and parts of Waikato. Please  delay travel and avoid the affected areas if possible.

State Highways currently closed as at 11am Tuesday 14 October.

Current closures

Information accurate at at 10.40am Tuesday 14 October

Taranaki region

• State Highway 3 (SH3) is closed at Awakino (between Mokau and Piopio).
• State Highway 4 (SH4) is closed between Eight Mile Junction and Taumarunui.
• State Highway 43 (SH43) Forgotten World Highway is closed from Whangamōmona to Taumarunui. Access remains open from Stratford to Whangamōmona.
• SH3 at Tongapōrutu is down to one lane with stop/go traffic control and a 30km/h speed limit.

Waikato region

• SH30 is closed between Te Kuiti and Benneydale.
• SH31 is closed between Tihiroa and Kawhia

Slip on SH4 between Eight Mile Junction and Taumarunui

Crews on the ground

Road crews are working to clear slips and restore access, especially along SH3 between Tongapōrutu and Piopio where motorists are currently stuck between slips.

Travel advice

Please avoid travel through the area.

Drive to the conditions, take your time and be prepared for the possibility of further slips.

More information

Check the NZTA Journey Planner for the latest travel information: journeys.nzta.govt.nz.

Follow NZTA Waka Kotahi on social media for real-time updates.

• Facebook: facebook.com/nztamwt
• X: x.com/nztacni