Tis the season for working on the roads

Road works are in full swing across Central Hawke’s Bay.

Our road maintenance contractor, Downer, is busy making the most of the summer construction season resealing roads, repairing pavements, fixing potholes and gathering data for next season's renewals.

This year, we’re also focussing on resilience, drawing on lessons from past emergencies and preparing for the risks posed by the forecast La Niña weather pattern. Hot, dry and windy conditions bring challenges like heat stress, fire risks and fatigue for our crews. With guidance from Fire and Emergency NZ, we’re prioritising safety to ensure everyone gets home safely each day – contractors, community and holidaymakers.

After long hot and dry spells, dust, dirt and oil build up on our roads. When it rains, these materials create slippery conditions known as ‘summer ice,’ similar to black ice in winter. Even light rain can make roads dangerous, especially just after it starts. We urge motorists to take extra care when driving, reducing speeds, increasing following distances, and braking and steering gently, especially around corners.

Summer also means the return of ‘bleeding’ roads, where heat causes bitumen to soften and rise. Driving fast on these roads is unsafe, it can damage both the road and your vehicle. If you come across a bleeding road, please slow down, increase your following distance, and report it to our team by calling 06 857 8060 so we can respond quickly.

Why not just build roads that don’t bleed? While asphalt surfaces used overseas may handle extreme heat better, they’re simply not affordable in New Zealand. Chipseal remains the most cost-effective option for our roading network, both locally and across the motu. The industry is exploring more sustainable solutions, including emulsions, but these changes will take time.

Road maintenance is an ongoing effort shaped by local conditions, funding and evolving technology. By staying informed, driving responsibly and reporting issues when they arise, we can work together to protect our roads and ensure a safer, more reliable network for everyone in Central Hawke’s Bay. So, be vigilant, and let’s keep our community moving forward safely.

From your Land Transport team at Central Hawke’s Bay District Council

ENDS

10 December 2024

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