The NZ Transport Agency says State Highway 1 (the Desert Road) between Rangipo and Waiouru is now open after being closed yesterday, the Agency says temperatures on the Central Plateau are still below zero and drivers need to take extreme care when driving through the area.
Motorists are also asked not to stop on the road side as workers are still clearing some parts of the road way.
NZTA’s Regional Highway Network Operations Manager, Karen Boyt says these road conditions require drivers to be vigilant, to drive to the conditions and to adhere to warning signs posted.
“The road open around lunch time, we still ask travellers to plan their journey, regularly check road conditions as they can change quickly and allow sufficient time to reach their destination.”
The NZTA’s website is regularly updated with information about most closures and detours at www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic. This information is also available by phoning the NZTA’s free phone on 0800 4HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49), which can also be used to report any significant road issues or hazards which people may come across during their travels.
The NZTA also uses other technology to provide information to enable drivers to make better informed choices about their travel. On The Move is a free service which enables people to sign up for information about crashes, road works and driving conditions on their frequently used routes - to sign up, go www.onthemove.govt.nz(external link).
