Snow, ice affecting South Island highways today and coming days, first Otago highway closed this morning – 12.20pm update

30 July 2024 12:33 pm | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is encouraging drivers to keep themselves updated on snow and ice conditions in the lower and central South Island/Te Wai Pounamu today and through this week.

One highway closed in South Canterbury

The Mt Cook/Aoraki highway (SH80), from the base of Lake Pukaki/the SH8 intersection, to Mt Cook Village remains closed since earlier this morning.

SH8 from Fairlie through Burkes Pass to Tekapo reopened before midday.
Tekapo to Pukaki, SH8, reopened after 11am today.

Given the volume of snow falling and potential for icy roads, the Mt Cook highway could remain closed overnight.

View larger/downloadable map [PNG, 469 KB]

Burkes Pass summit earlier today, from the grit truck.

Palmerston to Kyeburn, Otago, closed

In Otago, SH85 from Palmerston to Kyeburn closed before 9 am. Check for updates(external link)

The Lindis Pass, between Omarama and Tarras, SH8, is currently catching snow but remains open with electronic signs warning drivers of the need to take care, slow down and also slow down when driving on a gritted road.
Cold and slippery winter driving conditions mean that drivers coming in and out of Dunedin over the Leith Saddle on SH1 from Waitati also need to take care, especially in the mornings.

“In South Canterbury we have seven crews busy gritting and clearing snow today,” says Mark Pinner, System Manager Central South Island for NZTA.

“We have additional resources on standby around the central and lower South Island as the forecast is for snow to continue to around 2am tomorrow/Wednesday morning. The alpine passes between Canterbury and the West Coast could catch snow from midday today into Wednesday.

“People should be aware that there will be travel and route changes in coming days as once the snow stops, very low temperatures could also cause issues with a return to the black ice of earlier in July.”

SH73 Porters and Arthur’s Passes, SH7 Lewis Pass

At this stage Arthur’s Pass/ Porters Pass (SH73) and the Lewis Pass (SH7) are open, although snow could affect them from this afternoon into Wednesday, says Mr Pinner. People should aim to travel in daylight hours whenever possible. Check the NZTA traffic and travel pages for any updates or restrictions on these routes (eg chains required, no towing vehicles).

Crown Range Road linking Queenstown and Wānaka

Updates on Queenstown Lakes District’s web pages or Facebook (external link)

Southland seems to have missed the snow so far.
Another run of hard frosts is anticipated later this week over the lower and central South Island.

Check before you go

People should check NZTA’s highway map before setting out around the central and southern South Island, particularly overnight in winter.

Journey Planner(external link)

NZTA tips for safe journeys this winter

Drive slower than you normally would – it only takes a split second to lose control in wet or icy conditions.
Avoid sudden braking or turning movements that could cause you to skid.
Accelerate smoothly and brake gently.
Use your highest gear when travelling uphill and your lowest downhill.
For vehicles without anti-skid braking systems, to avoid skidding or sliding, smoothly pump the brake pedal in short bursts rather than pressing long and hard.
Drive at a safe travelling distance because it takes longer to stop on slippery roads.
In winter, especially in frosty or icy weather, double the two-second rule to four seconds and leave a safe distance between you and the car you’re following.
When travelling in fog, rain or snow, drive with your lights dipped for increased safety.
Makes sure everyone is wearing their seat belt throughout the full journey.
Plan your trip to avoid the coldest times of the day or night if you can.

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