New Zealand is renowned for its changeable weather which means you should plan and prepare before you find yourself on an icy, wet or snowbound road. 

Storms can hit the country with little warning, delivering heavy rain, ice and snow, especially during the winter months (usually between June and August).

Road Safety Southland are giving away free ice scrapers, while stocks last. Get yours from the Southland District Council office or selected Police Stations.

This is the most hazardous time of year for driving, with frost and ice occurring throughout the country and snow in areas like the central North Island and alpine passes in the South Island. 

The following winter driving tips will help you stay safe on the road.

PLANNING YOUR JOURNEY 

• Always check the weather forecast and road conditions before you leave. 

• Consider if you really need to travel, especially if the weather is poor. 

• Think about where you’re going and what route you should take – choose safety over convenience. 

• If travel can’t be put off, allow extra time for your journey. 

• Plan to drive during daylight hours when visibility is better and hazards such as ice and snow are less likely. Avoid driving at night when hazards rapidly multiply. 

• If travelling long distances, make sure you are well rested and plan where to have a break. 

• Share the driving if possible or allow for stops every two hours. 

• Dress for the conditions, carry additional warm clothes and keep a survival kit in your vehicle in case you do get stuck. 

• Ensure your car is roadworthy and keep at least half a tank of fuel in your vehicle in case you get diverted onto another route or you are forced to turn back. 

• Be prepared for snow and carry tyre chains that you know how to fit and use.

WHEN YOU’RE ON THE ROAD 

• Drive slower than you normally would – it only takes a split second to lose control in wet or icy conditions. 

• Avoid sudden braking or turning that could cause you to skid. Accelerate smoothly and brake gently, and use your highest gear when travelling uphill and your lowest downhill. 

• For vehicles without anti-skid braking systems, pump the brake pedal in short rapid bursts rather than pressing long and hard to avoid skidding or sliding. 

• Drive at a safe travelling distance because it takes longer to stop on slippery roads. In winter, especially in poor weather, double the two-second rule to ensure a safe distance between you and the car in front. When travelling in fog, rain or snow, drive with your lights dipped for increased safety. 

• As well as other drivers, there could be winter maintenance vehicles on the highway helping to keep the road open. If you come across any of these vehicles, stay a safe distance behind them and don’t pass unless you’re instructed to.

TIPS FOR SPOTTING ICE AND SNOW 

• Look out for shaded areas caused by high banks and tall trees where roads freeze sooner and ice may not thaw during the day. 

• Bridges could also stay slippery longer than other road surfaces, so slow down when crossing. 

• Frost is more severe at daybreak so be prepared for this after it becomes light. While it may not be frosty at 6am, it could be an hour or two later