Police were called to the scene between the Papakura and Manurewa off-ramps.

The highway is blocked and police warn delays may last for some time.

Auckland Airport says 19,500 international travellers will depart today.

Police were called to the scene at about 4.30pm.

Tributes have been paid to first responders and other heroes who stepped in to save lives during the Bondi terror attack before the fifth Ashes test.

Before day one of play at the SCG, the Australia and England teams lined up in a guard of honour for 14 people who represented emergency services as well as members of the public who put their lives on the line to save others.

They included Ahmed Al Ahmed, who wrestled and disarmed one of the gunmen, and Jackson Doolan and Daniel McLaughlin, representing lifeguards at Bondi Beach who acted quickly to save lives.

READ MORE: Bondi terror suspects allegedly used rural farm to practice shooting

The heroes stood on the SCG pitch, and players, officials and 48,000 people in the crowd gave them a moving and rapturous standing ovation.

NSW Police and NSW Ambulance, as well as hospitalmedics were also represented.

A moment of silence for the 15 victims of last month's attack was held.

READ MORE: Why is the US attacking Venezuela?

Al Ahmed was the final person to walk through the guard of honour, with his left arm in a still in a sling after being shot.

He was in St George Hospital for over a fortnight, and had surgery on his shoulder.

Al Ahmed was released from hospital on December 29.

READ MORE: World leaders react with condemnation and caution after US attack on Venezuela

Bondi Lifeguards thanked Cricket Australia for the touching ceremony.

"As lifeguards, we are incredibly proud to make Ahmed al-Ahmed an honorary member of the Bondi Lifeguards, recognising his selfless heroics that helped save lives," a post said.

"Thank you… for your tribute to the first responders, and for once again allowing a moment's silence in honour of the families affected by the Bondi attack."

DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP: Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Flags are at half-mast as Dunedin farewells former mayor.

The curly-coated retriever was still wearing her bright orange lifejacket.

Police are investigating the apparent theft.

Venezuelan Kiwi Dietrich Truchsess has a cousin missing since May last year.

The dark clouds that once hung over Porepunkah are starting to dissipate.

It has been a tough few months for the small Victorian tourist town of just over 1000 people, but the light has finally returned for residents and business owners

When accused cop killer Dezi Freeman allegedly shot and killed Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59, and Senior Constable Vadim Hottart De Waart, 34, and injured a third, Porepunkah was plunged into a snap lockdown.

READ MORE: '$250 by 8am': The unusual idea earning everyday Aussies big money

Do you have a story? Contact reporter April Glover at Google Play.