Motorists Warned of Black Ice on Eastern Bay Roads

Motorists are being reminded to take extra care on inland Eastern Bay of Plenty roads as sub-zero temperatures increase the risk of black ice.

Senior Sergeant Al Fenwick said colder inland areas of the Bay continue to pose a significant hazard every year.

He said certain stretches of road are particularly prone to dangerous icy conditions, especially around Lake Rotomā after rain during cold weather.

Because black ice is often invisible to motorists, it can catch even experienced drivers by surprise.

"It just means for your average driver who's not used to it, you won't even see the ice until you're on it. Then you're all over the place, crashing into banks or down banks or into cars from the other way," Fenwick said.

He encouraged motorists to slow down, allow extra travel time and adjust their driving to suit the conditions.

"So like most things in that road policing space, I guess it's all just about driving through conditions, leaving with plenty of time so you're not rushing to get somewhere. So just being organised.”

"If it's cold, you just need to be cognisant of the fact that there could be black ice out there, especially in places like the Rotomās, and drive accordingly.”

“There's lots of good drivers who get caught out, but it's just because they aren't driving to their conditions,” Fenwick said.

The warning comes as Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is also urging caution on State Highway 30 between Lake Rotomā and Te Teko due to black ice.

The agency said motorists should travel with care until the ice has been cleared.