The NZ Transport Agency is reminding freight operators that the alternative to State Highway 1 between Picton and Christchurch is a longer route and to ensure that drivers are well rested and take plenty of breaks
All High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs) including 50MAX permitted for State Highway 1 can use the alternative route.
However, some restrictions are necessary to note: HPMVs including 50MAX are not to use the shortcut of Anglesea Street / Boyce Street, at Renwick to get between SH63 and SH6 and HPMVs including 50MAX are not to travel via SH6 through Woodbourne and into Blenheim to join SH1
NZTA National Manager Operations Kate Styles says that it is pleasing to see that freight companies have adjusted the way they operate to work around the closure of State Highway 1 and the extra time this journey involves.
“We have had inquiries about variations to the work-time, rest-time rule for the alternative route. We will assess on a case-by-case basis, and in very exceptional circumstances. Our primary concern will always be the safety of drivers and all road users,” says Styles.
“This road is now a vital lifeline for the South Island and we need to ensure that we do all we can to lower the risks for those using it, such as driver fatigue,” she says.
The alternative route which involves State highways 7, 65, 6 and 63 adds at least 3 hours to a trip between Picton and Christchurch.
All motorists using the road need to be aware this is a narrow, windy route with fewer passing opportunities. The road is getting far more traffic than usual, and all drivers need to realise there will be queues and potential delays.
“We have received unsolicited feedback from road users letting us know how courteous truck drivers on the route are, which is great to hear,” says Styles.
Commercial operators and drivers who want to be sent traffic updates for the route via text message are encouraged to email mailto:EQSHRoadInfo@nzta.govt.nz ,adding them to this service.
