The Waimana Gorge and State Highway 2 near Pukehina have reopened says a Waka Kotahi NZTA spokeserson.

State Highway 33 and 35 remain closed, although contractors expect to open SH33 by Sunday evening.

The agency is providing updates on state highway closures around the Bay of Plenty following the significant rainfall on Saturday.

State Highway 2 Waimana Gorge

State Highway 2 Waimana Gorge is now fully open.

Multiple slips closed the road this morning between Station Road, Tanetua and Woodlands Road in Ōpōtiki but have now been cleared.

State Highway 2 Pukehina

State Highway 2 is now open under stop/go traffic management at the Kaikokopu Bridge at Pukehina.

Expect delays due to a 100 metre stretch of flooding.

"We anticipate the flood water is at its highest now – but if the water rises we will have to fully close the road again," says an NZTA spokesperson.

To avoid the flooding, the detour for both directions is via read Wilson Road, Old Coach Road and Pukehina Station Road.

The slip on SH33. Photo: Supplied.

State Highway 33

State Highway 33 is closed from Paengaroa to State Highway 30 Rotorua due to several slips and fallen debris. Contractors are working to clear debris and provide traffic control.

If it is safe to do so, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency expects the road will reopen by 6pm.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

State Highway 35

State Highway 35 remains closed between Maraenui and Omaio. Waka Kotahi contractors are working tirelessly to clear multiple slips. Due to the large number of slips along this stretch it is unlikely the highway will reopen today.

The detour is via State Highway 2 Waioeka Gorge.

Driving conditions continue to be hazardous around the region so please only drive if essential. Due to the adverse weather, potholes are forming in multiple locations. Contractors are monitoring the situation, but in some areas resources will be prioritised to clearing slips and opening roads.

"If you must head out, please take extra care and drive to the conditions. Adjust your speed and keep a good following distance to give yourself the best chance of avoiding hazards," says an NZTA spokesperson.

Check the Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website before heading off for information on which routes are affected by recent bad weather.

"We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

"Waka Kotahi thanks everyone for their patience and understanding while we work to re-open roads in the region."