There are three main types of surface used on New Zealand’s roads and highways:
Asphalt provides good overall grip, but has reduced skid resistance when it is wet. This means you should slow down and take extra care when driving on asphalt in wet weather.
Worn chip-seal has reduced skid resistance, so be alert for smooth patches as you drive. Slow down on newly laid chip-seal. There may be patches of loose chips, which can increase your risk of skidding. Loose chips can also be thrown up when vehicles drive over them, which could break your windscreen.
Unsealed surfaces such as gravel can move under wheels. They offer very low skid resistances. Loose stones may also be thrown up by vehicles. You need to drive very carefully on unsealed roads. Adjust your speed to suit the conditions.
You may need to adjust your driving to suit the particular surface you are driving on as each type of surface can affect your vehicle’s handling. You should also be alert for changes in the road surface.
