If you’re on the road in Otago or Southland this Waitangi weekend or into next week stay alert as roads may be busier than usual with groups of motorcyclists and farm vehicles.

Motorcyclists could be going to the Burt Munro Challenge (8-12 February).

In past years as many as 2,000 motorcyclists registered to take part in the challenge with many more spectators at a number of venues – Oreti Beach, Bluff and Sandy Point. 

Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) advised all road users to take care around other traffic, particularly motorcyclists who are much more vulnerable than people in cars.

 Waka Kotahi Otago and Southland journey manager Nicole Felts said drivers need to build in plenty of breaks, enjoy the journey and take care around motorcyclists and other road users.

“Passing when there is so much traffic on the highways will probably not get you there any faster and will just raise stress levels.

“We have a big summer programme in full swing across the country so crews will try and minimise as much work as possible over the long weekends. 

“[There] may be temporary speed limits in places with crews finishing up later on the Friday before the weekend. So take extra care please.”

Sunstrike is dangerous: keep your sunglasses handy and use your car’s sun visors

Federated Farmers of New Zealand (FFNZ) also called for patience as harvest season is in full swing.

Feds Arable Industry chairperson and Waimate farmer Colin Hurst said combine harvesters and oversized agricultural vehicles have to move at lower speeds than other motorists.

"Farmers are asking other drivers to show a bit of patience and common sense when coming across these large vehicles on the road.

"If a tractor or harvester does pull over to the edge of the road, take your opportunity to pass if you can do so safely. Most of them will be moving no faster than 30-40 km/hr… so it’s not essential to have the same several hundred metres of clear road ahead needed when overtaking much faster moving vehicles."

Refusing to pass can result in a long line-up of vehicles and that’s when some drivers’ patience frays and they do something risky, Colin said.

FFNZ urged operators of farm vehicles to keep traffic flows in mind, and to remember their responsibilities in terms of protruding implements/headers and, where required, use of beacons and hazard panels.

Residents can check The Central App’s Reports button (for roads and weather) before travel.