The NZ Transport Agency is urging motorists travelling around the Eastern Bay of Plenty to take care as heavy rain is expected to descend in the area today and Friday morning.
Heavy rain to the east of Whakatane is expected this morning, the Transport Agency says drivers need to take extreme care when driving in wet road conditions.
“In weather like this, you need to change your driving and respect the conditions. That means being extra cautious when it comes to watching your speeds and following distances and taking it easy on corners,” says The Transport Agency's highways manager Brett Gliddon.
Mr Gliddon says “Before heading out on the road, we advise everyone to check the latest highway conditions or traffic cams online so you’re armed with the best information to help you on your journey.”
The Transport Agency’s website is regularly updated with information about most delays, closures and detours at www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic(external link).
People can also call the Transport Agency'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 to www.onthemove.govt.nz(external link)