Winter in New Zealand can transform the landscape into a stunning winterland – but it also brings challenging driving conditions, especially in rural areas and alpine regions. Whether you’re heading to the ski fields or crossing a mountain pass, knowing how to prepare for winter roads will keep you safe and help protect your rental car.

This guide covers essential winter driving tips and how to use snow chains correctly, so you can travel with confidence during the colder months.

Safe Winter Driving in New Zealand

Snow, ice, heavy rain, and low sun can all create hazards on New Zealand roads. Here’s how to minimise risks when driving in winter:

• Use headlights in poor visibility – Make sure you can be seen when driving through rain, fog, or snow.
• Keep a safe following distance – Wet or icy roads mean longer stopping distances.
• Adjust your speed to the conditions – Slow down in bad weather, rain, or snow.
• Fit snow chains when needed – In snowy conditions, fit chains and keep your speed below 25km/h.
• Watch for black ice – Be extra cautious in shaded areas and look for warning signs.
• Reduce glare from low winter sun – Wear sunglasses, clean your windscreen, and top up washer fluid.
• Drive in low gear through surface flooding – This helps maintain traction and control.

Snow Chains Guide

Snow chains can be essential for safe travel in alpine regions during winter. Follow these guidelines to use them correctly and protect both yourself and your rental vehicle.

Before You Travel

• Practice fitting chains somewhere dry and flat before you need them
• Make sure the chains are tight and secure – no loose ends should touch the vehicle.

When Driving with Chains

• Only use chains when necessary – avoid driving on bare, dry roads with chains fitted.
• Travel slowly – keep your speed below 20km/h.
• Maintain steady movement – avoid wheel spin and keep a smooth pace.
• Brake gently – begin braking softly on the straight before corners.
• Take corners slowly – only accelerate once your vehicle is straight again.
• Avoid sudden acceleration – if wheels spin, ease off the accelerator until grip returns.
• Increase following distance – stopping takes longer on snow and ice.
• In deep snow – clear snow around your vehicle and create a track before moving.

After Use

• Clean and dry your chains before storing them to prevent damage.
• Uncleaned chains may incur cleaning fees for rental vehicles.

Important Safety Notes

• Many alpine passes require you to carry snow chains when bad weather is forecast – check the NZ Transport Agency website before you travel.
• Ski resorts often offer chain fitting services at reasonable prices – a smart choice if you’re inexperienced.
• If conditions are severe, delay travel if possible.
• Remember: As the hirer, you are responsible for any damage caused by incorrectly fitted chains.

Useful Resources

• Road conditions & closures – NZTA Journey Planner
• Ski field road updates – check with the ski resort before you travel
• General safe driving tips – visit our Driving in NZ page

Travel smart this winter. With the right preparation, patience, and equipment, you can enjoy the beauty of New Zealand’s colder months without compromising on safety.