Safe driving - March and April health and safety focus

Whether you’re driving to work or heading off on a road trip, New Zealand road conditions and weather can change quickly, so take time to plan your trip before you leave and take notice of what’s going on around you as you drive.

• Older tyres can increase the time it takes your car to stop. Make sure your tyres have a tread of at least 3mm.
  If it’s currently, or has recently been raining, maintain a larger following distance than you would use in fine weather.
• Avoid sudden braking or turning movements and accelerate smoothly to avoid skidding.
• Make sure your windows are clear before setting off and leave in plenty of time.
• Watch out for sunstrike. You can beat the glare by keeping your windscreen clean and have sunglasses ready. If you can’t see, pull over and wait until visibility improves.
• Be especially careful on shaded sections of road where ice can form, even when it doesn't appear to be cold.
• NZ roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes unsealed. Watch out for gravel, potholes, cyclists, livestock (especially in rural areas), and slow-moving vehicles like tractors. Be extra cautious around blind corners and on hills.
• For longer drives, plan regular breaks to avoid fatigue, especially on long stretches of road. Have a co-driver or rotate drivers if possible. Consider using a GPS navigation system and be aware of the location of rest areas.
• Check the weather forecast and Waka Kotahi’s Journey Planner before leaving on long drives and choose the safer route rather than the quicker one.
• Adjust your speed to the conditions so you have time to react.
• Keep a first aid kit, a change of clothes, water, emergency rations, and a sleeping bag in your car in case of emergency. If you’re in an area that gets snow, carry snow chains. Watch how to fit snow chains here.
• Take care in shaded areas or on bridges where ice may not thaw as fast during cold days.
• If you’re travelling long distances, let a trusted person know where you’re going, and check in with them when you arrive.