A large tree has fallen on the Makapua Stream Bridge on SH38 north of Wairoa, resulting in a weeklong road closure. Although a detour is available, travel to and from Wairoa will still be affected by this road closure.

A detour is available via Waihi and Ruapapa roads, but this adds an extra hour to travel time to/from Wairoa. The road is unsealed and includes a bridge limited to 36 tonnes load.

NZTA intends to post signs at the Rotorua end of SH38 and in Murupara to inform drivers of the road closure and detour.

Work to restore normal access to Wairoa via SH38 is not expected to be completed until 23 August at the earliest.