SH6 Remains Closed

Southland residents being strongly advised to stay home and avoid all non-essential travel this morning, as roads all over the region are affected by snow and ice.

The region’s state highway network is affected: SH6 remains closed between Kingston and Five Rivers; SH1 is closed between Gore and Clinton; SH93– the back road between Mataura and Clinton – is also closed.

The rest of the Southland roading network is generally affected by snow and black ice. Neil Cruickshank, Manager of Emergency Management Southland, said that anyone who had to travel in hill country areas should carry chains and fit them where necessary.

“You have to assume that all country roads will be marginal, if not impassable,” Mr Cruickshank said.

“We strongly advise people to stay home at least until mid morning today. The roads are treacherous and footpaths are very slippery everywhere,” he said.

Local radio stations are carrying up to date messages about road conditions.

There have been no reports of sustained power outages in the region.

The weather conditions are forecast to improve this morning.

Information is also online at www.civildefence.co.nz