As we celebrate both Matariki and the shortest day of the year (June 21), the New Zealand Automobile Association (AA) is calling on Kiwis to still drive to winter conditions for several months with what is often the coldest period still to come.

According to AA motoring affairs general manager Mike Noon, visibility and road conditions can be more challenging for everyone at this time of the year.

“Winter makes roads treacherous in many ways - from heavy rain, to ice, to sun-strike,” he said.

Noon noted pedestrians and cyclists also need to be cautious and ensure drivers can see them easily by wearing light-coloured clothing and using high vis lights on bikes.

Here are other tips, as outlined by the AA, that brokers can pass to clients for safer winter trips:

• Keep your windscreens clean – inside and out and washer water full;
• Replace windscreen wiper blades if they’re smearing or not clearing rain completely;
• Check your tyre tread depth is good and tyre pressure is accurate;
• A winter service that checks battery and fluids (including antifreeze) could save you a big breakdown headache;
• Make sure you are prepared for being stuck out – whether it’s due to a crash or bad weather. Permanently keep these things in your car: battery jumper cables and other basic breakdown tools, a torch and gloves, a first aid kit and blankets, drinkable water and a few snack bars, and a fully charged cellphone;
• Consider whether you really need to travel if the forecast is bad. If you do, try to drive in daylight hours or always turn on your lights if it’s raining or a bit gloomy.

In any conditions – heavy rain, ice, or floods, Noon said motorists who are in doubt shouldn’t risk it.

“Clear, still nights and mornings can be deceptively risky,” he added. “Often you can’t see ice, so when the temperature has plummeted or there is frost around you need to drive cautiously.”

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