The remnants of a tropical cyclone are due to hit the upper North Island, including the Bay of Plenty, on the weekend of 15-16 March. As heavy rain is expected, drivers are urged to take extra caution. The media release below from NZTA provides further information.

The NZ Transport Agency is urging motorists travelling around the Waikato and Bay of Plenty region to take care, as heavy rain is expected at the weekend.

The Transport Agency says drivers need to take extreme care, as road surfaces can be very slippery after a long dry spell. 

Throughout the recent dry spell, dust, dirt, oil and other debris has built up on the road surface. When it rains, it can make driving conditions slippery and dangerous. Conditions are at the worst in the first few hours of rain, and light rain is more of a challenge than a heavy downpour.

In poor weather, drivers need to change their driving habits and respect the conditions. That means reducing their driving speed below the legal limit and increasing following distances, as vehicles need two to three times more stopping distance in wet weather. Drivers are also urged to take it easy on corners.

Before heading out on the road, the Transport Agency advises drivers to check the latest highway conditions and check the traffic cams online so they’re armed with the best information to help them on their journey.

The Transport Agency’s website is regularly updated with information about most delays, closures and detours.