3.50pm: The truck that was blocking lanes on the corner of Elizabeth Street and Takitimu Drive has now been towed and both lanes are open, says a Tauranga Transport Operations Centre spokesperson.

The truck with earth moving equipment broke down earlier, causing traffic delays along Takitimu Drive for vehicles heading towards Bethlehem.

Two lanes of traffic were affected.

The lanes are now open and traffic moving freely again.

Earlier, 2.55pm A SunLive reader has reported that a large truck with earth moving equipment has broken down on the corner of Elizabeth Street and Takitimu Drive.

"It's blocking one lane and part of another lane, and vehicles are trying to careful get around it.

"Traffic is backed up."

NZTA advise that the breakdown is blocking the left southbound lane prior to Elizabeth Street roundabout on Takitimu Drive.

"Please pass thescene with care and expect delays," says an NZTA spokesperson.

At the scene? Phone 0800 SUNLIVE or email [email protected]