If you're planning a winter road trip or driving up to the ski slopes, here are some important points to remember.
Put yourself in the driver’s seat using the AA’s new Visiting Drivers Training Programme(opens in new window) and experience what it is like to drive on New Zealand roads. Complete a series of driving tasks and test yourself on New Zealand’s road rules. If you pass the tests, get a certificate to prove your skill.
Before setting out on a winter road trip, it’s important you are clued up on weather activity and road conditions in your region. Monitor the weather before you leave and note down any areas expecting heavy snow, rainfall or hail. You can check the weather and road conditions in these New Zealand websites:
When you’re renting a car it’s important to have chains available when travelling along snow and ice. Most rental companies will provide you with chains, as well as demonstrate how to fit them.
Black Ice is a thin sheet of ice on the road that is dark in appearance, making it extremely hard for drivers to see. It is commonly found around waterways and lakes, more often in shady or cooler areas. Black ice can cause drivers to lose control, so it’s important to drive carefully.
There are plenty of options for transport if you would prefer not to drive. Choose from shuttles, buses and trains; many have flexible itineraries and take in some great winter sights and activities.
