Drivers should carry chains on the alpine passes as well as Lindis Pass in South Canterbury.
All contract teams are working hard to keep the main highways passable and safe, said Transport Agency Journey Manager Lee Wright. “Please drive with care and keep safe following distances,” she said.
Latest Sunday 2 pm update from the contract teams:
State highway 73, between Canterbury and West Coast – chains are now essential on Arthurs Pass with no towing vehicles allowed. Snow falling.
State Highway 7, the Lewis Pass – snow has started falling early afternoon but so far no restrictions on vehicles. Very heavy rain and strong winds overnight, snow ploughs keeping road clear.
State Highway 65, the Shenandoah Highway through Maruia, south of Murchison – surface flooding.
South Westland- rain has eased although still very windy and trees have been cleared off roads.
Buller - the Buller River has continued to rise and a low-lying area at Inangahua is being monitored for flooding.
- State Highway 94, Milford Sound to Te Anau remains closed because of snow and avalanche risk. This will be reassessed on Monday, 25 July.
People should check the Transport Agency’s traffic map and Met Service severe weather forecasts and carry food, water and blankets in their vehicles in case there are delays on the journey, Ms Wright said.
- For the updated list of driving conditions, go to the Traffic and Travel map on the Transport Agency’s web page.
- Please check the MetService severe weather warnings for updates.
- Use this dedicated websitewww.nzta.govt.nz/winterjourneys
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