Fallen trees have blocked two highways near Rotorua. including this one at Fitzgerald Glade. Photo/Ben Fraser
UPDATE:
Diversions are in place near Fitzgerald Glade on State Highway 5.
The road is currently down to one lane and traffic heading to Rotorua is being diverted down Tapapa Rd via State Highway 28 while the tree is being cleared.
EARLIER:
Fallen trees have blocked two state highways near Rotorua.
In a Facebook post, the New Zealand Transport Agency said State Highway 5 near Fitzgerald Glade and State Highway 30 between Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoehu were currently blocked due to fallen trees.
Contractors were attending both scenes.
Motorists are asked to avoid these routes or allow extra time for delays until the roads can be cleared.
The wishing tree appeal is in its 31st year and the need for it 'has never been greater'.