Aucklanders are warned to take "extreme care" travelling as Cyclone Gabrielle threatens to close the Harbour Bridge.
With severe gales forecast from tomorrow, Auckland Transport (AT) asks the public to seriously consider if they need to travel - and avoid heading over the bridge unless absolutely necessary.
"Our message is please take extreme care when travelling on Sunday, plan ahead and check the AT website at at.govt.nz/weatherwatch for regular updates," said AT's executive general manager safety Stacey van der Putten.
"Given the wind warning for Sunday, there is a possibility there may restrictions or a closure on the Harbour Bridge, so check for travel updates and plan your full return journey."
The public should also be prepared for road closures. If flooding occurs, the specific areas to avoid are the Wairau Valley, Tamaki Drive, Fanshawe St around Victoria Park and Fred Thomas Drive.
And with high winds forecast, people are advised to watch out for debris and fallen trees on the road.
AT's plan for public transport
Auckland's public transport network will continue to operate, however AT said changes to services and cancellations will be made if required. This is what is planned as severe weather hits:
- Bus diversions will be implemented as required
- Harbour bridge restrictions will follow agreed processes with Waka Kotahi and bus operators based on wind speeds
- Trains will be stopped when winds exceed 100km/h. Contingencies are being confirmed with KiwiRail and rail operator Auckland One Rail
- Ferry services will have reduced frequencies and cancellations, as specified by the operator. All ferry services will be cancelled if directed by the incident management team
