Visitors heading to the Mackenzie Region over the coming days are being urged to plan ahead as severe winter weather combines with one of the busiest weekends of the year.
Hazardous driving conditions and temporary road closures are expected across the district due to heavy snowfall until Thursday, followed by freezing temperatures and a high risk of black ice over the long weekend.
The weather coincides with school holidays and the Matariki long weekend, with fresh snow on the ski fields expected to attract even more visitors to the region.
Accommodation, particularly in Lake Tekapo, is already in short supply. Anyone delayed by road closures or changing weather conditions may find it difficult to secure accommodation at short notice. Earlier this week, several visitors turned to local community social media pages struggling to find last-minute accommodation in Lake Tekapo.
Mackenzie Tourism and the Mackenzie District Council are reminding everyone planning a trip to prepare thoroughly before setting off.
"Safety must come first," Mayor Scott Aronsen said. "Visitors should be prepared for snow, ice, road closures and travel delays, and have a backup plan if conditions deteriorate.
"With school holidays, Matariki weekend and fresh snow attracting visitors to the region, accommodation in Lake Tekapo is already under pressure. We strongly encourage people to book accommodation before they travel, monitor weather and road conditions, and be prepared to adjust their plans if necessary.”
"A little planning before you leave can make all the difference to ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit."
Plan Ahead
Before travelling to the Mackenzie Region:
- Stay up to date on the latest state highway conditions and closures, and be prepared to change your travel if necessary - journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions
- Check Metservice for latest weather conditions.
- Drive to the conditions and consider postponing your journey if you are not confident driving in snow or icy conditions.
- Drive during sunshine hours to minimise chance of black ice and be particularly careful in shady spots. If you do strike black ice: remain calm, lift your foot off accelerator, do not slam the breaks, drive straight and look where you want to go.
- Carry snow chains where required and make sure you know how to fit them before you need them.
- Pack an emergency kit including blankets, warm clothing, torches, food, snacks and drinking water.
- Keep your mobile phone fully charged.
- Top up your fuel whenever the opportunity arises.
Book your accommodation before you leave, as availability (particularly in Lake Tekapo) is limited over the school holidays.