Rimutaka Hill Road unlikely to reopen today

The NZTA advises motorists the SH2 Rimutaka Hill Road is unlikely to reopen today due to heavy snowfall.

NZTA Wellington Operations Manager Mark Owen says the road was closed overnight, and snow is continuing to fall, requiring the road to remain closed until further notice.

"We have our contractors onsite at the Rimutaka Hill Road braving the cold to clear the snow, but snow is forecast to continue throughout the afternoon so the road is unlikely to reopen today."

"We advise people to either use the SH3 Manawatu Gorge as a detour, or take the train if possible."

"We appreciate these delays are frustrating, and we thank motorists for their patience and understanding while we do everything we can to get the road open and safe as soon as possible."

Mr Owen says the NZTA urges motorists to take extra care on the roads, watch for ice, particularly in shaded areas, and to drive to the conditions at all times.