Driving

Some considerations for safe driving on the Central Plateau in winter

Regardless of how the day looks, expect ice or slippery conditions:

On bridges.

Along parts of the road shaded from the sun, especially

SH47 between National park Village and Mangahuia.

SH47 between the Wairehi Canal Crossing and Lake Rotoaira.

In the early morning and late afternoon.

Avoid changing your direction on bridges: enter the bridge in the direction you intend leaving it.

Grit may build up in hazardous areas, e.g. at the bottom e.g. the Maketote Viaduct and become as much a hazard as snow or ice.

In icy conditions, crosswinds may push you off the road or across the centreline. The slower you drive, the more stable and controllable your vehicle.

Anticipate other drivers, especially those coming towards you, as potential hazards at all time and more so in icy/frosty conditions.

Drive at your own (safe) pace.

Because the vehicle in front of you is travelling faster does not mean that it is safe for you or safe at all.

Don’t be intimidated into speeding by someone behind you. If it is safe, let them pass.

Beware of the vehicle(s) behind you. They may not stop and rear-end you. Know how to brace your head against your headrest but don’t lock your elbows and knees.

Change down and slow down BEFORE you enter a potentially hazardous section of road.

Learn how to use your gears (in manuals and automatics) for slowing and braking on slippery surfaces.

During and after recent heavy rain, water may pool on level sections of the road and induce sideways drag i.e. pull you to one side or the other of the road. Hazard areas include

The flat straight by Discovery Lodge on SH47

The flat straight from National Park Village on SH47

Keep windows clean to reduce sun strike and reduced vision.

Turn headlights on to be more visible from the front and rear.

In poor road conditions, keep both hands on the wheel (10 and 2, thumbs outside): your coffee or flipping your Steely Dan cassette can wait.

Beware of ice in car parks as you leave your vehicle – test the surface before stepping out confidently.

Consider carrying in your vehicle:

Hi-viz jacket/vest

Torch/headlamp

Phone (charged)

Warm clothing including gloves, beanie etc.

Decent footwear

Sleeping bag

Water

Canned food (+ can opener)

First aid kit

Tow rope/recovery strop

Do YOU know what to do if first on the scene?