Severe rain across the central North Island caused widespread slips and flooding on Tuesday, leaving the towns of Matiere and Tokorima cut off and major routes, including SH4 between Taumarunui and Te Kuiti, closed for several days.
Ruapehu District Council partially activated its emergency operations centre and said road repairs and slip clearance would take time, urging motorists to check conditions and avoid unnecessary travel.
In Hamilton, officials monitored rising Waikato River levels, warning residents to stay away from floodwaters as paths along the river were closed. Despite easing weather, authorities said cleanup efforts would continue into Wednesday, with the focus on restoring access and ensuring public safety.
Road and travel updates can be accessed via NZTA on X.
SEVERE WEATHER – 9:40AM, TUE 14 OCT
Due to multiple slips & flooding, several state highways are impacted:
CLOSED
• SH3 Mokau to Piopio
• SH4 Te Mapara to Taumarunui
• SH30 Kopaki to Bennydale
• SH31 Ngutunui to Ōpārau
• SH43 Taumarunui to Whangamōmona pic.twitter.com/ztALEg4yvG— NZ Transport Agency – Central North Island (@nztacni) October 13, 2025
