Start of school holidays, unsettled weather over Te Waipounamu/the South Island

With school holidays about to begin and winter weather moving across the South Island, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency encourages people driving to new places to plan and allow extra time for everyone’s safety.

MetService is forecasting snow across parts of the South Island as well as wet, cold conditions which can make driving hazardous, says Tresca Forrester, Journey Manager for Canterbury and the West Coast for Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

• The West Coast and Buller, north of Otira, has a heavy rain watch in place, with an Orange warning for the areas to the north and south (Tasman and Westland).
• There is a heavy snow Orange warning for the Canterbury high country south of the Rangitata River and around the Mackenzie Basin.
• Rain could turn to snow in the Queenstown Lakes District.

“Make sure your vehicle is safe and warranted, pack extra clothes, food, water, allow more time for your travel, slow down and be prepared for unexpected hazards or road closures,” says Ms Forrester.

• Check the latest MetService forecast(external link) and be prepared for unpredictable changes in road conditions.

“Drivers need to watch following distances, keep lights on and adjust speed. In winter conditions it is easy for one mistake to turn a trip into tragedy.”

People should carry chains for journeys over alpine passes as conditions can change quickly.

People using SH73, Porters Pass, should be aware a retaining wall rebuild is slowing traffic east of Castle Hill for a few more weeks.

SH 73 Springfield to Castle Hill (Porters Pass) live traffic updates(external link)

“Our journeys website is regularly updated with the latest information covering delays, roadworks and road closures. Taking a few minutes to check it before you head out can save you a lot of time and hassle,” Ms Forrester says.

• Waka Kotahi traffic and travel pages(external link)
• MetService warnings(external link)

Simple rules for safe winter travelling

• Allow extra time and stay up to date with both road updates and weather forecasts.
• Ensure your vehicle is safe for winter driving (warranted, windwipers/lights working, spare tyre, chains if in snowy areas).
• Drive to the road and weather conditions.
• Slow down and be prepared for unexpected hazards.
• Allow greater following distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
• Make sure your cell phone is well charged, check car charger also.