A wet and gusty weekend ahead for many parts of the South Island means road users may want to carefully consider their travel on state highways, and extra care may be needed in places.

MetService has issued a series of warnings and watches for the island (see map below).

The orange* warnings are as follows:

• Heavy rain warning for the Ranges of Buller and Grey Districts from 3pm tomorrow, including possible thunderstorms on Sunday morning.
• Strong wing warning for the Canterbury High Country from 1am Sunday, with severe gale west to northwest winds gusting up to 120 km/h in exposed places.
• Strong wind warning for Southland south of Gore and Stewart Island from 4am Sunday, with severe gale westerlies gusting up to 120 km/h in exposed places.

*Orange heavy rain warnings mean streams and rivers may rise rapidly, and surface flooding, slips, and difficult driving conditions are possible. Orange strong wind warnings mean that damage to trees, powerlines, and unsecured structures is possible, and that driving may be difficult, especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcycles.

MetService also has lesser weather watches in place as follows:

• Heavy rain watch for the Ranges of Westland District from 9am tomorrow.
• Heavy rain watch for Nelson Lakes from 6pm tomorrow.
• Strong wind watch for Dunedin and Clutha from 6am Sunday.

New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) reminds people that heavy rain means slippery roads and drivers should think about adjusting their speed and travelling distances, avoiding sudden braking, and staying visible (using headlights in daytime hours).

People are also urged to avoid driving through any floodwaters where the depth is unclear and there may be hidden obstructions. NZTA contractors will be monitoring the state highway network and will respond to any slips or obstructions that need clearing.  

Those operating motorcycles, towing vehicles, and high-sided vehicles like campervans, should take extra care in high winds, and consider pulling over if feeling unsafe.   

Stay up to date on state highway conditions at NZTA’s Journey Planner site