Top of the South drivers, be ready for bad weather

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi | 8 May 2025 12:12pm | Nelson and Marlborough

Drivers travelling in the top of the South Island are urged to be ready for wet and slippery driving 

The Metservice has issued Heavy Rain Watches for Tasman northwest of Motueka, and the Richmond and Bryant Ranges.  They run from 9 pm tonight (Thursday) until tomorrow (Friday) afternoon.

The bad weather will affect State Highway 6 – Nelson, and Hira to the Rai Valley, and State Highway 60 -  Tākaka/Golden Bay.

Drivers must be prepared for wet weather driving and take extra care on the roads. 

Road users must drive to the conditions and be prepared for hazards like slips, rockfalls, and localised flooding.

Because wet weather makes roads slippery, drivers should reduce their speed, increase following distances, avoid sudden braking, and take extra care when overtaking. They should also use headlights if visibility is poor to ensure they can be seen on the roads

Bad weather can also see roads closed at short notice. Drivers are encouraged to check road and weather conditions before they travel.