Bridge collapse isolates North Island community

Power lines are down and a community is isolated after a bridge collapsed into a river in the lower North Island at 9am.

Wanganui Civil Defence spokesman Tony Cato said the Ngaturi Bridge over the Mangawhero River disappeared into the river, effectively isolating the Mangamahu community.

The bridge is 40km northeast of Wanganui.

Some power poles fell into the river causing power cuts.

Electricity supplier Powerco was working to restore electricity through an alternative supply, due to be completed later today, Mr Cato said.

Civil Defence staff and engineers inspected the damage earlier today and investigated an alternative crossing. However, a track which had been considered for use was very muddy, slippery and too dangerous, Mr Cato said.

In Rangitikei the weather was fine and people were cleaning up around their properties, Mayor Bob Buchanan said.

He said he understood most of the evacuated families had returned to their homes.

Some roads were still closed by slips in the area, Mr Buchanan said.

Around Wellington, the State Highway 2 Rimutaka Hill road Wellington is open but police advise motorists to expect long delays as it is one lane only.

SH 53 between Featherston and Martinborough is open but speed restrictions mean motorists should expect delays.

- NZPA