Drivers in the lower North Island are being urged to take extra care on the roads on Monday with bad weather forecast for the region.
MetService has issued a strong wind watch for Wellington and southern Wairarapa, a heavy rain warning for the Tararua Ranges and a heavy swell warning for the Kāpiti/Porirua Coast.
With northwest winds predicted to approach severe gales, the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is urging drivers to take special care on exposed routes such as SH2 Remutaka Hill and the Wainui Saddle on SH1 Transmission Gully. This especially applies to motorcyclists, trucks, vans, and towing vehicles.
As there's the potential for heavy swells to affect the coast near State Highway 59 between Pukerua Bay and Pakākāriki, NZTA warns road users on this route should also be prepared for hazards.
"The bad weather is likely to affect afternoon peak travel times. Urban commuters should drive accordingly," NZTA said.
"Drive to the conditions, increase your following distances, avoid sudden braking, and use your headlights if visibility is poor.
"Bad weather can cause roads to close at short notice. Drivers should check the weather and road conditions before they travel."
