The arrival of the first frosts has put Queenstown Lakes District residents on notice that winter is nearly here and more care is required on the roads, Queenstown Lakes District Council Transport manager Denis Mander said.

“There have been several mornings in recent weeks where residents have needed to clear their windscreens of a light layer of frost before setting off to work and it’s a timely reminder that we need to start thinking about how we deal with winter road conditions,” Mr Mander said.

While gritting has yet to start on a regular basis, grit trucks have been deployed on occasion on the Crown Range in the last month and Mr Mander said people needed to be preparing for the harsher conditions.

“Cars need to be checked for anti freeze and chains need to be carried,” he said. ‘People also need to allow more time in the mornings and drive with caution.”

He advised that people needed to watch out for wet roads.

“If a road looks wet, it’s likely to be slippery,” Mr Mander said. “As well as using grit on local roads, we’re applying the chemical CMA to stop the roads freezing. CMA leaves a wet finish on the road for a short period and during this time the road can be slicker than normal. If you’re driving and see a wet section, drive more cautiously.”

“ It’s also important to remember that roads can freeze and refreeze at any time of day, so attention is required on the road at all times, not just first thing in the morning.”

Mr Mander also said that people needed to be sensible around grit and CMA trucks and not overtake them at speed.

Other driving tips included:

• Slow down and increase the following distance from the vehicle in front.
• Accelerate, brake and change gears gently
• Clear your windscreen of ice and snow completely. You could face an instant fine if you don’t
• Listen to the radio for local road updates and weather conditions before you leave home.

“When it comes to winter driving, you best friend is common sense,” said Mr Mander. “Be prepared and if you’re not confident about driving in snow and ice, leave the car at home and take advantage of other travel options.”

ENDS

For more information, contact QLDC transportation manager Denis Mander phone 03 441 0499

By: Andrea Bunting