Waka Kotahi, Police, ACC, Ministry of Transport, Auckland Transport and WorkSafe are joining up to urge people to stay safe on the road in Central this Matariki weekend.

With the first mid-winter long weekend approaching, driving to the conditions is key to staying safe on the road. 

Whether it’s wet, slippery, or icy on the road, planning ahead, allowing extra time and driving slower makes a difference.

Waka Kotahi land transport director Kane Patena said it gets dark earlier, and the winter weather conditions can be tricky 

“It only takes a split second to lose control in wet or icy conditions. 

"Make sure you check your tyre tread and pressure, use headlights, and take extra care – it’s simple, easy and helps save lives,” Kane said. 

Police will be visible and patrolling on the roads this long weekend.

Superintendent Steve Greally, National Road Policing Centre director, said over the recent weekend we again saw how devastating a mistake can be on the road. 

“In one moment, seven lives were lost in the most horrific way and two people are still in hospital. 

We do not want to see anything like this happen again this coming weekend,” he said.

“Police can’t control the actions of every driver 24/7. Being safe on the road is something we all have to take responsibility for.” 

Steve said the police and road safety partners at Waka Kotahi, ACC, and Worksafe are all pleading for everybody on the road this weekend to take care

“I will always tell people to remember the basics; put your seatbelt on, your phone away, and focus on the road. 

“Never ever drink and drive, and make sure you watch your following distances. 

“You want to give yourself space to react if something goes wrong on the road ahead. 

“You may not make a mistake but somebody else might.”

ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker asks people to think about the best ways you can keep yourself and others safe.

“Crashes are preventable – you can avoid them by making smart choices when you’re behind the wheel.”

He said people should consider delaying their journey if the conditions are particularly bad. 

"If you do have to go out on the road, adjust your speed and following distances accordingly, stay focused and avoid distractions.”

Waka Kotahi vehicle safety checklist and winter driving checklist provide tips for getting ready ahead of the weekend.

Read Waka Kotahi winter driving tips, Waka Kotahi vehicle safety checklist and stay up to date via the Roads report updated daily (and as changes come in) on The Central App.