Unsettled weather across Te Wai Pounamu/the South Island and parts of Te Ika-a-Māui/ the North Island have made driving conditions less than predictable today, says Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
“Please take extra care if you are driving,” says Tresca Forrester, Waka Kotahi Journey Manager. “There have been scattered thunderstorms in several places and tomorrow also looks unsettled. If you are driving any distance, please check highway conditions before setting off.
Waka Kotahi Journey Planner website(external link)
“For many people this will be the first wet, windy, wintery weather in some time, so we’re asking everyone to be vigilant heading into the weekend.”
Snow is forecast to road level from this afternoon (Thursday) near the Homer Tunnel. After 5 pm drivers need to carry chains and expect short delays Friday morning as the highway is cleared of any overnight snow.
https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/areawarnings/384601(external link)
Strong winds on these routes today. Drivers of high-sided vehicles, campervans and motorcycle riders need to take care.
Heavy rain is causing surface flooding.
https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/areawarnings/384592(external link)
Strong winds and heavy rain on the Arthur’s Pass route today. People driving campervans, motorcycles or high-sided vehicles need to take care.
On Friday, 1 to 2 cm of snow may settle near the summit, with lesser amounts down to 800 metres.
North of Westport to Mokihinui, expect surface flooding.
https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/areawarnings/383277(external link)
The highway is down to one lane this afternoon at Inangahua due to a slip covering part of the road. Please take care and give way.
https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/roadhazards/384650(external link)
