Auckland Harbour Bridge: Amber alert issued amid high winds

The speed is reduced on the Auckland Harbour Bridge amid an amber alert for high winds during peak-hour traffic.

Meanwhile, a serious crash between a car and a motorbike on the Northern Motorway shortly after 6.30am has closed a southbound lane heading towards the city, near the Greville Rd on-ramp.

Thunderstorms, heavy showers and hail could also hit Auckland today, with winds expected to reach up to 80kph, the MetService said. The heaviest rain is forecast for after 9pm.

Under an amber alert speeds will be reduced, and some lanes may close, Waka Kotahi has said.

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It’s expected Saturday will also have an amber alert, and it’s possible the risk will rise to brief periods of a red alert – where all lanes would close.

Waka Kotahi said high-sided vehicle drivers and motorcyclists should use the western ring route on State Highways 16 and 18.

On Friday morning, police advised drivers to avoid the area or expect delays near Greville Rd after a serious crash occurred on the Northern Motorway.

The rider of the motorbike had been taken to hospital in a serious condition, and the Serious Crash Unit had been advised.

Meanwhile, SH1 at Dome Valley was closed overnight following a major slip where 30 truckloads of material descended onto the road.

Waka Kotahi intended to have crews working overnight if it was safe and will be providing an update Friday morning.

Drivers should take alternative routes through SH16, Waka Kotahi said.