We are heading in to winter, and while it’s darker and often wet, it’s a good time to consider how the change of season can affect driving conditions by maintaining greater following distances between your vehicle and the one in front, slowing down and being prepared for unexpected hazards.
“Whether you’re hitting the road for a Kiwi winter holiday or just trying to stay warm getting from A to B, winter trips can be safe trips by planning ahead and doing the simple things right,” says Roger Brady, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi Regional Manager Maintenance and Operations, Waikato Bay of Plenty.
“Check the latest weather and travel conditions before you start your trip and remember to have breaks throughout your journey."
You can find the latest information at Journey Planner or by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49). If extreme weather or treacherous road conditions are forecast, consider whether you really need to travel, or if you can delay your trip.
Driving on roads that are exposed to winter weather conditions can be tricky at the best of times. Conditions can change rapidly and often the safest speed to drive at will be much lower than the actual posted speed limit.
Check the NZTA website for a range of basic checks to perform on your car before hitting the road:
For up-to-date travel information please check:
Journey Planner(external link)
Please note that from Friday 31 May 2024 and over the winter months, the traffic bulletin will move to fortnightly updates.
Waikato and Bay of Plenty state highway works as at 17 May 2024 [PDF, 325 KB]
