Desert Road reopens after snow closure on State Highway 1

Monday 17 August 2026 · 4 outlets · 5 reports · updated Mon 17 Aug, 8:26am

In this story MetService, NZ Transport Agency

State Highway 1 between Rangipo and Waiouru reopened after being closed due to snow. The road was shut on Sunday night around 9pm, following a period of sub-zero temperatures. NZTA confirmed the Desert Road was open again just after 10am on Monday.

How they headlined it

7:12am7:51am8:23am

1. StuffMon 17 Aug, 7:12am

   Snow closes Desert Road after bitterly cold start to the week (opens in new tab)

2. 1NewsMon 17 Aug, 7:51am

   Desert Rd closed due to snow as temperatures plunge again (opens in new tab)

   • Desert Rd reopens after earlier closure due to snow (opens in new tab) Mon 17 Aug, 7:51am
3. The PressMon 17 Aug, 8:23am

   Snow closes Desert Rd from Rangipo to Waiouru (opens in new tab)

   Also on Waikato Times (opens in new tab)

   • Chilly start to the week but a balmy weekend of 18C is on the way (opens in new tab) Mon 17 Aug, 8:26am