Winter Road Reports

Sign up for our Winter Road Reports for daily updates on road conditions and chain requirements.

Each morning between 6.30am and 7.00am, our crews send a short email summarising conditions across the district.

We aim to give you the best morning snapshot of key roads, but conditions can change quickly. Always make sure to drive to the conditions.

You can also sign up for our community text alerts. We'll send you a text message if there are unforeseen issues in your area, for example, road closures, extended water shutdowns, ice and snow affecting roads, or other emergencies.

Snow chains are essential for safe winter travel in our alpine environment. Knowing when and how to use them helps keep everyone on the road safe.

From winter 2026, drivers who fail to fit chains in snowy or icy conditions on Council‑managed roads may face a $750 fine. This is enforceable under the Traffic and Parking Bylaw 2025, with Police responsible for issuing infringements.

You are responsible for knowing how to fit your chains safely. If you’re unsure which wheels to fit chains to, check your vehicle manual or ask your mechanic.

Only fit chains when snow is settling on the road, when a “chains required” variable message sign (VMS) is displayed, or when instructed by Police, ski field operators or QLDC.

If you’re new to winter driving or just want a refresher, our free workshops help you learn how to fit chains confidently before the cold weather arrives.

Our chain workshops will be held on:

• Friday 29 May, 10.00am–1.00pm — Wānaka Recreation Centre

• Wednesday 3 June, 10.00am–1.00pm — Queenstown Events Centre.

Our contractors work throughout winter to keep roads as safe as possible.

We prioritise main transport routes first, then secondary roads, then footpaths during heavy snowfall.

Grit is used to improve traction on icy surfaces. We also use Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA) — a biodegradable, non‑corrosive de‑icing agent that prevents ice from forming when road temperatures are above -7°C.

Check the maps below to see priority routes and winter maintenance service levels:

• Maps of priority roads for winter clearing (PDF, 4.72MB)

• Winter maintenance service levels (PDF, 71.35KB).

Winter driving requires extra care and patience. These tips help reduce risk and keep you and others safe.

• Carry chains and know how to fit them — especially if you regularly travel over the Crown Range.

• Accelerate smoothly and brake gently to maintain traction.

• Allow extra travel time and reduce your speed.

• Four‑wheel drives are not necessarily safer on ice, especially downhill.

• Clear all snow and ice from your windows before driving — fines apply.

• Shaded areas and bridges can stay icy all day.

• Double your following distance.

• Never overtake a grit truck.

• On very cold, snowy or icy days, only travel if necessary.

Before you travel:

• check the latest Winter Road Report and daytime updates on our social channels

• look at the Crown Range webcam if you’re heading over the hill

• make sure your vehicle is winter‑ready: chains in the boot, full tank of fuel, charged phone, warm clothing and a torch

• let someone know your travel plans if conditions are poor

• consider alternatives such as the bus, carpooling or delaying travel if you’re not confident driving in winter conditions.