Drivers planning to cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge on Thursday are being urged to take care, following strong wind and heavy rain warnings.
NZTA said earlier on Thursday that trucks, vans and motorbikes should avoid the bridge and use the Western Wing Route on State Highway 16 and 18 instead because of the adverse weather.
Now, it has an extra warning for motorists.
"If you're using the Akl Harbour Bridge this afternoon please stay within your lane and keep to the speed limit (sic)," it said on Twitter on Thursday afternoon.
NZTA Auckland system manager Andrea Williamson said it is keeping a close eye on weather conditions.
MetService has a strong wind warning and a heavy rain watch in place for Auckland until 7pm on Thursday. Northeast wind gusts are expected to reach 100km/h in exposed places but are due to ease in the evening.
Williamson said these high winds mean lanes on the bridge may have to be closed.
"Congestion is already heavy and delays are likely on Auckland roads. Motorists should plan ahead, check their route using the Journey Planner before traveling," she said.
"If crossing the bridge, drive to the conditions, keep within your lane and obey the reduced speed limits."
She said NZTA knows that closing lanes will cause disruption and inconvenience motorists, and any closures would be lifted as soon as it was safe enough.
"Safety is our priority, and while we don't make these decisions lightly, we will not hesitate to close the bridge if that becomes necessary."
Gale force winds on September 18 blew a truck into a strut on the Auckland Harbour Bridge, which caused damage and the closure of traffic lanes. Major repairs were needed and it resulted in traffic mayhem until it was fixed.
