Auckland rush hour traffic: Queues back to harbour bridge after crash blocks Southern Motorway

Commuters on Auckland's Southern Motorway are being warned to expect half-hour delays, with queues back to the harbour bridge, after a multi-vehicle rush-hour crash.

Waka Kotahi NZTA is warning motorists they will be in for an extra-long trip to work this morning after crashed vehicles left two southbound lanes blocked near the Tecoma St off-ramp.

It is warning motorists to find alternate routes to work or consider delaying their journey.

Traffic queues are now banked up to Auckland Harbour Bridge.

The crash, which happened at 6.55am and has since been cleared, initially affected the right and left southbound lanes, with traffic left at a near standstill.

UPDATE 7:15PM
The right lane is now available on #SH1 however the left lane remains blocked and the middle lane is part-blocked. Delay your journey or consider using an alternative route if possible. ^LB https://t.co/JNpSX5jpwM pic.twitter.com/sQgOWuYidK

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Auckland & Northland (@WakaKotahiAkNth) June 16, 2022

With the crashed vehicles cleared of the motorway by 7.30am, Waka Kotahi said delays caused by the crash would continue through the morning rush.

"Continue to expect up to 40-minute delays southbound as congestion resumes normal peak volumes," it tweeted.

Earlier, road users were told to pass with care and to expect long delays this morning.

SH1 SOUTHERN MWY - 6:55AM
A multi-vehicle crash is blocking the left and the right southbound lanes prior to #SH1 Tecoma St off-ramp. Pass with care and expect LONG delays. ^LB pic.twitter.com/Dr5DzTQ42Q

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Auckland & Northland (@WakaKotahiAkNth) June 16, 2022