Care urged on roads as winter conditions hit home

29 May 29, 2002

Media Release

Care urged on roads as winter conditions hit home

The onset of the cold snap which has battered the country in recent days has led Transit New Zealand to issue a winter reminder to motorists, urging them all to exercise extreme care on South Island roads as winter conditions take effect.

Transit regional asset manager Peter Connors says the cold snap, which has dumped snow on the lower South Island over the past few days, heralds the onset of winter driving conditions.

“Conditions on our roads can change rapidly, particularly in the alpine passes. We advise all motorists to carry chains, warm winter clothing and food in their vehicle when travelling, to ensure they are prepared in the event of snow on the road or weather-related delays,” he says.

“While our highway maintenance contractors continue a programme of gritting and other de-icing methods over the winter months, care should still be exercised as ice can be encountered at any time on all roads.

“Particular care should be shown when negotiating shaded and sheltered areas, where ice may linger even on clear days,” he says.

“Every endeavour is made to ensure road condition reports are updated promptly, and we advise motorists to check their route with the 24 hour Automobile Association/Transit New Zealand road report line (phone 0900 33-222) prior to travelling over the alpine passes during the winter months,” he adds.

Road signs advising motorists of conditions are located on the alpine routes (including SH7, the Lewis Pass; SH73, Arthur’s Pass; SH6, Haast Pass and SH8, the Lindis Pass).

“Motorists should drive according to the conditions and allow additional time to reach their destination than would normally be the case.”

Information about Milford Road SH94 is available on www.milfordroad.co.nz or through www.transit.govt.nz

ENDS

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