Highway info the best place for info on winter road conditions

With this Friday (June 1) marking the official onset of winter, the NZ Transport Agency is reminding motorists and media that the best source for accurate, real-time information on state highway road conditions is the NZTA’s Highway Info website - www.highwayinfo.govt.nz.

Highway info the With the long weekend around the corner and the possibility of a long, cold winter ahead, it's important that motorists can easily access the latest information on road conditions before setting out on their journeys. The www.highwayinfo.govt.nz(external link) site lists current road conditions and any delays, hazards or closures on the state highway network. The website is updated in real time, and it is the best source for the most recent information on highway conditions.

The NZTA also operates a Highway Info toll free number, which is 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49).

“In winter, weather conditions can change quickly and often without warning, so it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected by checking road conditions in advance. Highway Info is updated in real time by our contractors and engineers on the ground, and the website is automatically refreshed every two minutes,” says NZTA Chief Executive Geoff Dangerfield.

Mr Dangerfield said drivers should also pay close attention to any warnings or closure notifications displayed on the NZTA’s network of roadside electronic variable message signs, which display the very latest information on road conditions for motorists.

“The NZTA wants every journey on our roads to be a safe journey, and we’re working hard to ensure that motorists are getting the best possible information direct from the source to help them make safe, well-informed decisions on their travel.”

Mr Dangerfield also urged drivers to think about the things they could do to make their winter driving journeys safer.

“The days are shorter and the weather is unpredictable, so it’s important that we all allow more time for our trips, adjust our driving to the conditions, and make sure that our vehicles are winter-fit. Many garages offer winter safety checks, which will ensure that your tyres, brakes, windscreen wipers, lights and steering system are all up to scratch for winter driving.”

The NZTA reminds motorists to drive to the conditions at all times, use chains where required, and to be prepared for difficult winter conditions on all roads.

More information on safe winter driving can be found online in our safer winter driving brochure(external link).

NZTA’s top winter driving tips:

• Check the latest road condition information on www.highwayinfo.govt.nz(external link), by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49), or listening to your local radio station.
• Watch for ice, frost and slippery road surfaces particularly in the early morning, as temperatures drop at night, and at all times in shaded areas.
• Plan your journey and allow plenty of time. Avoid unnecessary night time and early morning trips, and avoid travelling if severe weather is forecast. 
• Get plenty of sleep and don't drive if you're feeling tired.
• Be alert, take care and adjust your speed to the conditions
• Check your car is roadworthy and that you have at least half a tank of petrol.
• If you’re driving in areas where snow is likely, carry chains and know how to fit them.
• Know how to fit and use winter tyres safely(external link).
• Be prepared for the unexpected; carry warm clothes, sturdy footwear, food and water, and a survival kit, in case you get stuck.