The NZ Transport Agency says journey planning and driving with extra care are the keys to drivers enjoying a safe long weekend.
Canterbury and West Coast roads will be busy this Queens birthday weekend, says the Transport Agency’s Journey Manager Lee Wright.
"Lots of people are expected to head out of Christchurch for a three-day break and what is for many the last long weekend until Labour Weekend in October. Motorists should be prepared for possible traffic queues and delays on State Highway 1.
It’s shaping up as a busy weekend in Christchurch with the FIFA U-20 World Cup kicking off on Monday 1 June at the Christchurch Stadium. We also have the Police Station implosion at 8am on Saturday morning and the Christchurch Marathon on Sunday. Please check www.tfc.govt.nz for transport information and regular updates.
Canterbury’s weather is looking good for the weekend, although rain is expected on Monday, with heavy showers forecast for the West Coast from Saturday. Those travelling along State highway (SH1) on the Kaikoura Coast should take care, with high seas over the last couple of days washing debris on to some sections of the road.
Ms Wright urges everyone to be prepared for their journey, especially with winter on our doorsteps. “Planning your journey before leaving home, checking the weather forecasts and being a considerate driver will help everyone to get to their destination safely. Don’t underestimate the importance of taking regular breaks from driving to avoid fatigue.”
The Transport Agency is stopping all maintenance work in the Canterbury and West Coast regions over the Queen’s Birthday weekend, except for repairs on the SH1 Hurunui River Bridge which are taking place on Sunday night 31 May from 8pm-6am and Monday night same time, with up to 20 minutes closures. Drivers are asked to stick to any speed limit restrictions and watch their following distances through road works sites.
For updates on all highway conditions freephone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS 0800 44 44 49, visit the website www.highwayinfo.govt.nz or keep up-to-date on Facebook www.facebook.com/nztasouthisland(external link)
