Waka Kotahi is advising Northlanders to prepare for heavy rainfall and strong winds late this afternoon and into tomorrow, as Cyclone Fili approaches the eastern side of New Zealand's North Island.
Mark Owen, Regional Manager - Maintenance and Operations at Waka Kotahi, said those travelling this afternoon should be on alert for changing conditions, including potential surface flooding and slips on the roads.
"Cyclone Fili is expected to deliver heavy rain and strong winds to Northland this afternoon, which can make for difficult driving conditions," Mr Owen said.
"If you must travel, please slow down and maintain a greater following distance. Remember vehicles need three times more stopping distance in wet conditions."
Waka Kotahi together with Metservice will continue to monitor conditions, however, earlier forecasts have been slightly downgraded in some areas, including Auckland, but may still impact some travel.
