Severe weather means care needed on roads

200814sp11 Ford Road. Rotorua flooding. 20 August 2014 Daily Post photograph by Stephen Parker RGP 21Aug14 - DOWNPOUR: Waves of water spraying off roads was a common sight yesterday morning as

The NZ Transport Agency advises motorists to plan ahead and drive with care on central North Island roads this weekend as Cyclone Pam bears down on the east coast.

MetService has issued a severe weather watch for northern and eastern parts of the country as the cyclone heads towards New Zealand.

The Transport Agency's Bay of Plenty journey manager Nigel D'Ath said heavy rain and strong winds will make conditions challenging for all road users.

"It is going to be a difficult and potentially dangerous time for travel over the coming days and people will need to plan carefully to make sure they reach their destination safely."

The Transport Agency advises motorists to avoid any non-essential travel during severe weather.

Mr D'Ath said there are a number of things people can do to keep safe if they do have to travel.

"It is important to drive to the conditions.

"Reduce driving speeds below the legal limit and increase following distances - vehicles need three times more stopping distance in wet weather."

Mr D'Ath said care will also be needed in those areas exposed to strong winds - such as State Highway 35 (SH35) along the East Cape and other roads along the coast.

It is possible that roads will be closed by slips and flooding and some may not be able to be cleared until the storm subsides.

"Motorists should be alert to surface flooding, fallen trees and debris, he said.

"People should always expect the unexpected, especially if they are travelling at night on country roads where there is minimal lighting."

Motorcyclists, cyclists and high-sided vehicles such as campervans are particularly vulnerable to high winds, and extra caution is advised for those travellers.

New Zealand has a number of remote areas with difficult topography and winding roads, and these journeys become even more challenging when bad weather hits.

"We ask drivers to watch their speeds on corners, and remain vigilant for slips, debris and the higher risk of vehicles losing control in these conditions," Mr D'Ath said.

The Transport Agency will be working with local authorities and emergency services to keep roads open and safe for travellers.

Electronic signs will be used to keep road users informed of conditions ahead.

Road maintenance and other works scheduled for the next week has been postponed due to the weather.

The Transport Agency will provide updates on these works when possible.

There are a number of ways people can plan their journey:

For real time information on highway conditions and incidents visit www.nzta.govt.nz or call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or follow @nztawaibop on twitter.

For personalised information about driving conditions on their frequently used routes, motorists can check out and sign up to On The Move at https://onthemove.govt.nz/