Sticky tar season: Drive carefully on CHB’s roads this summer

Sticky tar days – no good for your jandals, or your car.

Road works are in full swing across Central Hawke’s Bay.

Central Hawke’s Bay District Council road maintenance contractor Downer is busy making the most of the summer construction season, resealing roads, repairing pavements, fixing potholes and gathering data for next season’s renewals.

The Land Transport team at Central Hawke’s Bay District Council says, “This year, we’re also focusing on resilience, drawing on lessons from past emergencies and preparing for the risks posed by the forecast La Nina weather pattern.”

“Hot, dry and windy conditions bring challenges like heat stress, fire risks and fatigue for our crews. With guidance from Fire and Emergency NZ, we’re prioritising safety to ensure everyone gets home safely each day – contractors, community and holidaymakers,” a Land Transport spokesperson said.

After long hot and dry spells, dust, dirt and oil build up on roads. When it rains, these materials create slippery conditions known as “summer ice”, similar to black ice in winter.

Even light rain can make roads dangerous, especially just after it starts.

“We urge motorists to take extra care when driving, reducing speeds, increasing following distances, and braking and steering gently, especially around corners.”

Summer also means the return of “bleeding” roads, where heat causes bitumen to soften and rise.

Driving fast on these roads is unsafe, as it can damage both the road and your vehicle. If you come across a bleeding road, please slow down, increase your following distance and report it to the Land Transport team by calling (06) 857 8060 so they can respond quickly.

Why not just build roads that don’t bleed? While asphalt surfaces used overseas may handle extreme heat better, they’re simply not affordable in New Zealand. Chip seal remains the most cost-effective option for New Zealand’s roading network, both locally and across the motu.

The industry is exploring more sustainable solutions, including emulsions, but these changes will take time.

Road maintenance is an ongoing effort shaped by local conditions, funding and evolving technology. By staying informed, driving responsibly and reporting issues when they arise, drivers can work together to protect roads and ensure a safer, more reliable network for everyone in Central Hawke’s Bay.

“So, be vigilant, and let’s keep our community moving forward safely.”