Slip closes road to Akaroa

A significant slip, consisting of mud and pine trees, has closed the Christchurch-Akaroa Road (State Highway 75) about 1 km south of the Banks Peninsula village of Little River and isn't expected to be cleared or re-opened again until Monday morning some time. SH75 is the main route from Christchurch to Akaora.

Significant surface flooding in and around Birdlings Flat also poses a danger to motorists.

And Police urge motorists not to use any of the alternative routes over the hills (from Port Levy) as conditions are trecherous throughout the area.

Further media releases will be made in the morning.