22 September 2014 | NZ Transport Agency - Southern Region

Motorists asked to take care on Canterbury roads

Motorists are being asked to slow down and take care on Canterbury roads today with the region being lashed by strong winds and sleety showers.

The NZ Transport Agency’s Canterbury/West Coast Journey Manager Lee Wright says strong winds on Banks Peninsula have already brought branches and debris onto State Highway 75 causing a hazard for motorists.

“Our contractors are on the highways working to ensure the roads are being kept clear of any debris and open to all traffic.”

Sleety showers have been reported on State Highway 7 through Lewis Pass and snow is forecast to fall on State Highway 73 later today, with Porter’s Pass expected to be worst hit. The forecast is for snow down to 400 metres.

With today’s wild weather forecast to remain for much of the week, Ms Wright says motorists need to plan their journeys. “They need to slow down, allow more time for their journey, drive to the conditions and be prepared for unexpected hazards.”

Ms Wright says everyone should check road conditions before travelling and avoid all unnecessary travel if conditions could make travel hazardous.

For updates on the state highway conditions and hazards call freephone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or visit the website www.highwayinfo.govt.nz.

© Scoop Media