How to Prepare Your Car for Winter Driving in New Zealand’s South Island
Partaking in a road trip through New Zealand’s South Island is a wonderful experience all year round. But there is something quite magical about doing so in the winter months.
Imagine seeing snow-dusted mountains, ethereal alpine lakes, and visiting charming little towns nestled between rugged peaks. This is a time of year when New Zealand’s landscapes really shine!
However, before you get too caught up in its beauty, you’ve got to make sure your car is up to the task of handling the notoriously difficult winter conditions.
Driving in the South Island during winter is far different from zipping down a coastal highway in the summer, not least because you’ll often have icy roads, sudden weather changes and snow-covered passes to contend with.
Regardless of whether you’re in your own vehicle or hiring one for the trip, it pays to be prepared. So, here’s everything you need to know to get your car ready for your ultimate winter road trip on Te Waipounamu.
Driving around the South Island in Winter
As beautiful as the South Island of New Zealand is in winter, conditions can also be quite unpredictable.
Alpine passes like Arthur’s Pass and the Crown Range can be covered in snow and ice, especially in the early mornings, and even coastal areas like Dunedin and Kaikōura can get cold and wet. When you consider that daylight hours are much shorter than in summer, it is clear that you should plan ahead.
Make sure you leave plenty of time for each leg of your journey, and be prepared for black ice, snowfalls, fog, and even road closures, which are common in winter.
Hiring a Car
If you are visiting the South Island in winter from overseas or the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui), the chances are you are going to need a car.
Thankfully, most car rental companies in New Zealand maintain their fleets well. However, you should still do a quick check before you hit the road.
When picking up the vehicle, confirm whether snow chains are included with it, and if not, make a point of requesting them, particularly if you’ll be driving through alpine areas.
It is also worth giving the tyres and windscreen a quick inspection and taking a few minutes to familiarise yourself with the car, especially how to turn on the headlights, fog lights, and demisters.
You are also recommended to double-check your insurance policy to ensure you’re covered for snow-related incidents or driving on unsealed roads, and arrange for roadside support if you run into trouble.
Car Maintenance
If you intend to drive your own vehicle around the South Island of New Zealand in winter, your best bet is to take your vehicle to a fully qualified mechanic before you intend to go.
However, if you are unable to get an appointment, here are some things you can do to prepare your car for the adventure.
1. Check Your Tyres and Tread Depth
Your tyres are your main contact with the road, so they need to be in good nick. In winter, it’s recommended that tyre tread depth be at least 3mm, as this will ensure safe traction.
If you’re heading into snow-prone areas, it is worth investing in winter tyres. Alternatively, make sure you’ve got a set of snow chains in the boot.
It’s also worth taking a few minutes to practise putting the chains on before you hit the road. You’ll no doubt find it much easier to learn this in the relative warmth and comfort of your driveway than on a frozen roadside with your fingers going numb.
2. Top Up Fluids and Use Antifreeze
Cold weather can do a real number on your car’s fluid systems, so before you set off, check the coolant level and make sure you’re using antifreeze that’s suitable for the conditions. This helps prevent the engine from freezing or overheating when temperatures drop.
At the same time, top up your windscreen washer fluid and make sure it’s a winter-grade solution that won’t freeze overnight. While you’re at it, check the oil levels, especially if your car is overdue for a service.
3. Test the Battery
Car batteries can struggle in cold weather, which is why you should get yours checked by a mechanic if it is a few years old. In winter, engines take more effort to start, and a weak battery can leave you stranded in an inconvenient spot.
If your car hesitates when starting in the morning or the lights seem dim, it might be time for a replacement. It is also worth packing jumper leads or a portable jump starter, especially if you’re heading into remote areas.
4. Inspect Lights, Wipers, and Heating
Visibility is a key component of driving in New Zealand in winter, particularly as you are often dealing with fog, snow, or dark mornings.
For this reason, it is worth giving your headlights, brake lights and indicators a clean and making sure they’re all working properly. If the lenses are cloudy or yellowing, give them a polish to brighten things up.
At the same time, you’ll definitely want to be able to see the road signs, so make sure your wiper blades don’t leave streaks across your windscreen, and of course, ensure that your heating is working.
5. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit
Even with all the right prep, a road trip around the South Island in New Zealand does come with risks. Therefore, it’s smart to pack an emergency kit just in case. This should include a torch with extra batteries, a warm blanket or jacket, a first aid kit, and some non-perishable snacks and bottled water.
If you’re heading into snowy or alpine regions, also consider taking an ice scraper, gloves, and even a small shovel with you. Additionally, a power bank for your phone can be a real lifesaver if you break down in an area with no signal or power.
