Updated 4.56pm:
Rocks Road will remain closed into Saturday, says NZTA.
The closure is in both directions between Russell Street and Bisley Avenue for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
The recommended detour for all traffic (including heavy vehicles) is via Waimea Road and Whakatu Drive.
"Commencing early tomorrow, Saturday 5 July, unstable sections at the top of cliff are being removed by a specialist abseiling team," says NZTA.
"The road needs to remain closed until it is safe to reopen."
Updated 12.02pm:
A slip has closed Rocks Rd this morning, causing traffic delays.
The road is closed in both directions, with traffic being diverted at Russell St and Bisley Ave.
The closure applies to all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
Contractors are onsite clearing the slip. NZTA will provide an update when the road re-opens.
Many flights in and out of Nelson have been cancelled or delayed on Friday morning.
Air New Zealand chief operating officer Alex Marren says low cloud and rain are affecting visibility in Nelson today, impacting operations.
"As a result, a number of services in and out of Nelson have been cancelled today. Safety remains our top priority. We are closely monitoring the conditions and operating when it is safe to do so. Those customers affected will be rebooked on the next available service, including any connections."
Civil Defence continue to monitor the wet weather coming into the region. The MetService has issued a Severe Weather Watch for today’s rain.
The amount of rain expected would not normally trigger a Severe Watch status. However, in this case they are incorporating the implications of rain on saturated ground.
The Watch is for 7hrs from 7am to 2pm today for the Tasman region north of Wakefield, including Nelson City, the Richmond and Bryant Ranges. The showers may become heavier up to 15 to 20 mm/hr early this afternoon.
Due to the saturated ground, surface flooding and slips are expected and are making driving conditions difficult, be careful on the roads and only travel if it is necessary.
The Harbourmaster, Coastguard and volunteers have been active clearing a significant amount of debris from the water and coastline. These include nets, apple bins and plastic waste.
However, it is likely that Navigational hazards remain in the area. The team will assess today’s weather and build a plan around remaining debris accordingly.
