There are multiple road snowfall, wind, surface flooding and rain warnings across the South Island/Te Waipounamu for Tuesday this week (12 July).

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is asking people to drive to the conditions and be prepared for some disruption on highways and local roads.

Alpine routes

People travelling on alpine roads through Canterbury and Otago and into the Mackenzie Basin (via Burkes or Lindis Passes) and inland Otago should carry chains and be prepared for snow on the road down to 500 metres in some areas.

As it is the school holidays, Waka Kotahi advises people check their vehicles before setting off, take warm clothes, blankets, food, and water in case of road closures. Check MetService and the Waka Kotahi Journeys page.

Heavy rain, possible slips

Heavy rain is forecast across Tasman west of Motueka, Marlborough, and Canterbury, particularly across the Kaikōura Coast. “There may be localised rockfalls and slips across the network so please take care,” says Waka Kotahi Journey Manager Tresca Forrester.

Driving conditions will be hazardous in areas with peak rain intensity forecast (see map below for Tuesday), snow and wind.

“Share the driving, allow extra time and watch following distances across the highways,” says Ms Forrester.

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