Tauranga residents heading to central and lower North Island areas are being urged to pack extra food and blankets, take extra care on the roads and be prepared for winter-like conditions over the next 24 hours.
Severe gales, high winds, heavy rain warnings and road snowfall warnings have been issued for parts of the central and lower North Island and any Tauranga residents heading to the areas are encouraged to pack food, clothing and blankets in case of an emergency.
New Zealand Transport Agency journey manager Liam Ryan said road users should take extra care while travelling, as snow and ice could make the road more hazardous especially in shaded areas and on bridge decks.
"Road users must drive to the conditions and plan ahead in case of any delays. It's a good idea to pack extra food, warm clothing and blankets in case of emergencies or road closures," Ryan said.
"If weather conditions make driving too hazardous, some roads may close for a time. So it's important before you set off to refer to the NZTA webpage and online updates, especially those driving through the Central Plateau."
