Ice and snow highway update – carry chains alpine passes, 2 pm update, 30 July

Travellers on the South Island’s alpine passes need to carry chains today and probably tomorrow also as wintry conditions continue. The Haast to Makarora highway was closed for part of this morning.

Early afternoon update from the West Coast contract team:

• State Highway 7 Hanmer turnoff to Springs Junction (Lewis Pass) – road open, snow falling – more forecast for this afternoon and tonight.
• SH7 Springs Junction to Reefton (Rahu Saddle) – road open, snow falling – more forecast for this afternoon and tonight.
• SH73 Arthurs Pass to Otira - road open – chains essential, no towing vehicles.
• SH6 Haast to Makarora (Haast Pass) - road open, with ice warning.

“Please keep safe following distances and drive prepared for the cold and slippery winter conditions,” said NZ Transport Agency Journey Manager Lee Wright. All drivers need to be careful especially under shaded areas that get little sun, she said.

Check the Transport Agency’s traffic map(external link) and the MetService’s snow forecast(external link) pages.

The Milford Rd (State Highway 94 to Te Anau) remains closed due to snow and avalanche risk. The Transport Agency’s traffic and travel map shows the status of this road and other state highway closures/ delays.

See the NZ Transport Agency's travel and traffic page here.(external link)

MetService snow warnings here.(external link)

Call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS 0800 44 44 49

Queenstown Lakes District road conditions here.(external link)

The Lewis Pass, State Highway 7, earlier today, 30 July, 2016.