Black ice this morning in the Queenstown Lakes District proved that even Council staff are not infallible, QLDC transport manager Denis Mander said.

 “Unfortunately at around 8am, approximately 16km from Wanaka on the Cardrona Valley Road two Council staff members, travelling to Queenstown, fell victim to black ice on an otherwise wet road,” Mr Mander said.

 The QLDC Hilux vehicle slid before travelling through a deer fence and tipping onto its side in a paddock, thankfully  both driver and passenger were shaken but not hurt.

 “This was one of our more experienced staff behind the wheel, someone with over 20-years winter driving experience under his belt. I think it’s a wake-up call not only for Council staff but for the entire community, conditions can change from fine to treacherous in a matter of moments,” Mr Mander said.

 A number of other minor accident were reported around the network this morning including an accident at Arrow Junction.

 The Council advised all drivers to take extreme care with further black ice and snow anticipated over the coming days.

 ENDS

 For further information please contact Denis Mander 03 441 0499 

 

By: Jo Blick