Drivers in the lower North Island are being urged to take extra care on the region’s roads ahead of forecast bad weather hitting later today (5 October).

Metservice has a Heavy Snow Watch in place for the Wairarapa region from 9 pm Wednesday through to 1 pm Thursday. Snow may lower to near sea level, and amounts could approach warning criteria above 200 metres.

Emma Speight, Director Regional Relationships – Greater Wellington and Top of the South, says road users should prepare for winter driving conditions.

“It’s all about watching your speed, following distances, and driving to the conditions. It’s about being patient and making sure you get to your destination safely.”

Emma Speight says the weather could see State Highway 2 over the Remutaka Hill and Mount Bruce closed overnight.

“If there is a substantial snowfall and the routes are unsafe for drivers, they will be closed. Regular users of the route must check its status before travelling and should try to make their trips before the bad weather hits around 9 pm tonight.”

Contractors monitor the situation, and all efforts will be taken to keep roads open. However, recent bad weather means there is a risk of further slips and rockfalls on local highways, and drivers should be prepared for hazards.

Check these links before you travel:

• Waka Kotahi journeys page(external link)
• Metservice – warnings and watches(external link)
• Metlink alerts(external link)