Easter storm makes driving conditions hazardous
Easter storm makes driving conditions hazardous
The NZ Transport Agency says storm conditions at the start of the Easter break are making driving hazardous in Auckland and Northland and it advises people extreme care is needed on the regions’ state highways and roads.
Winds have gusted up to 98kph on the Auckland Harbour Bridge, there are reports of surface flooding on some sections of the city’s motorway network, and there is debris on several rural roads in both regions.
“Our maintenance crews are keeping roads open, but people need to drive to the conditions – use their headlights, lower their speeds and increase their following distances – for safe travel,” says the Transport Agency’s National Journey Manager, Kathryn Musgrave.
State highways in both regions are expected to get busy later today as people head away for the extended 10-day break over Easter and the following ANZAC Day weekend.
“Traffic in Auckland has flowed pretty well during this morning’s peak as people adjust their driving because of the storm, but the weather is likely to remain unsettled for several days and care will be needed at all times,” Mrs Musgrave says.
“We will be working with the Police and local roading authorities to keep people informed of driving conditions ahead to help them reach their destinations safely. In rural areas, in particular, there is a danger of trees or branches that have been brought down by strong winds.”
Additional travel information is available
at:-
Highway information: www.highwayinfo.govt.nz
or 0800 4HIGHWAYS
Planning a specific route: www.onthemove.govt.nz
Northland highways/roads: 0800
111655
Planning safe holidays: www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/around-nz/holidays.html
Auckland public transport: www.at.govt.nz
ENDS