With multiple weather warnings in place for Wellington, Wairarapa, Marlborough, Nelson and Golden Bay, drivers in the regions need to be ready for hazardous driving conditions.
The Metservice has issued a strong wind warning for Wellington and Marlborough and a strong wind watch for Wairarapa. The bad weather is due to hit late tonight and last until early Friday morning. North to north-westerly gusts of up to 120 km/h are forecast for Wellington and Marlborough.
It means drivers of high-sided vehicles – trucks and campervans – and motorcycles must take care on exposed routes.
The Metservice also has a heavy rain watch for Richmond and Bryant Ranges, the Rai Valley area, and the Marlborough Sounds. A heavy rain warning is in place for the Tasman ranges west of Motueka. Both warnings apply from late tonight to Friday morning.
It means drivers must be prepared for bad weather and make sure they drive to the conditions.
Watching speed and following distances is crucial, and extra care is needed after dark, with the worst conditions happening at night. Strong winds and heavy rain can cause treefalls, slips, and localised flooding.
Drivers should be prepared for unexpected hazards and check road conditions before they travel. Bad weather can see state highways closed at short notice.
