The Rangitata River on Saturday afternoon. Civil Defence said water from the swollen river was lapping over the Rangitata Bridge, making it too dangerous to cross. Another main river crossing, Route 72 at the upper Rangitata Bridge was also closed, preventing motorists from going north or south. "We've also had to close Route 72 which is the Upper Rangitata bridge which is the other main crossing for the river." Environment Canterbury staff are getting in touch with landowners along the river and alerts are being sent out.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 06, 2019 23:02 UTC