NZ Transport Agency

9 October 2009

NZTA advises motorists to prepare for more snow

The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists travelling in the central North Island to be prepared for the likelihood of more snow this weekend.

SH5 and the Desert Road were closed earlier this week due to a freak snowstorm, and more snow has been forecast this weekend in the central North Island. While it is unlikely the weather will be as extreme as Sunday’s snowstorm, the NZTA is reminding motorists to be prepared for the possibility of hold-ups and adverse road conditions.

“We appreciate it’s the end of the school holidays and families will be keen to head back home,” says NZTA Operations Manager Dave Bates.

“However, if you need to travel on the highways this weekend, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of delays or closures, and to drive carefully as roads are likely to become slippery and icy.”

Mr Bates says the NZTA will be closely monitoring weather and highway conditions, and has road crews and heavy equipment on 24-hour standby to manage traffic and clear snowfalls as required.

Before travelling, motorists are advised to check www.highwayinfo.govt.nz , which contains up to date information on state highway conditions, delays and closures.

ENDS

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