NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) said that in addition to King’s Birthday being observed on Monday, the long weekend would extend to four days for many because of a teacher-only day this Friday.
NZTA said widespread frosts were likely on State Highways 8 and 80 in the Mackenzie Basin on Friday morning with temperatures below 0degC, while freezing fog was possible through the day.
The area has already experienced lengthy spells of similar conditions in the past couple of weeks.
The outlook was similar for Saturday in the Mackenzie Basin, NZTA said, adding that road users should also be aware of the potential for frosts and ice through until Sunday in the Central Otago and Southern Lakes areas.
In the alpine and foothill areas of Canterbury, morning frosts are also expected for State Highways 7, 73 and 77 through until Sunday.
NZTA said contractors would be monitoring the state highways and might apply grit or other treatments in areas where ice was built up or likely to form.
Road users were urged to travel with care, and to adjust their driving to icy or foggy conditions – including being visible, reducing speed, adjusting the travelling distance behind other motorists, and avoiding sudden braking or turning movements.
