A wet long weekend ahead

Published on 26 January 2023

Updated 11.45am Friday 27 January

MetService has issued a Severe Weather warning (orange) for the Coromandel from 9am Friday 27 January to 12noon Saturday 28 January. Expect 120 to 160 mm of rain about the ranges, with 70 to 100 mm nearer the coast. Peak rates of 15 to 25 mm/h, especially about the ranges, however, rates of 25 to 35 mm/h are possible in thunderstorms. Note, once the heavy rain eases, showers are expected through the rest of the weekend.

Motorists travelling around the coast are being warned to take extreme care on both the state highways and our local roads, as surface flooding is likely, especially around the high tide period at 12.45pm Friday. Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.

“The impact will most certainly be felt with further slips, surface flooding and road closures expected across the entire network this long weekend as our district struggles to keep roads open following a wet and stormy summer so far,” says our Civil Defence Controller Garry Towler.

"All roading crews are on standby to respond to events this weekend,” says Mr Towler.

As of 11am Friday the Kōpū-Hikuai State Highway 25A (SH25A) road was closed by Waka Kotahi/NZTA due to further damage.  As a result our Council has had to close the Tapu-Coroglen and the 309 Road as these roads have several under slips and surface damage from previous storms, which may deteriorate further if they are used as a detour route. For an updated list of road closures, visit our Road and Highway Conditions web page. 

Alternative routes via Waihi and Whangamatā, or State Highway 25 Thames Coast Road, are open.

“It’s more important than ever this weekend to check in regularly with MetService, Waka Kotahi, Thames-Coromandel District Council Facebook and local media if you are out and about in the Coromandel this weekend,” says Mr Towler.

“We have been hammered with severe weather all summer and this weekend is shaping up to hit us all once again, so plan well ahead. Don’t just have a plan A, make a plan B and C as well,” he adds.

Road users can get ahead by using the Holiday Journeys tool here to plan their journey.

Check for updates with | Thames-Coromandel District Council Facebook | Waka Kotahi/NZTA |MetService