Bright Wings

Rimutaka Hill users need to monitor snow forecasts

Everytime it snows motorists get stuck on the Rimutaka Hill.

Barring motorists who are driving because of some emergency situation, the general rule of thumb is: if snow is forecast down to 700 metres, or lower, motorists should use the Wairarapa train, as there is a strong possibility the Rimutaka Hill will close.

Snow down to 400 metres was forecast for the Tararua Ranges by the MetService at least two days in advance.

According to a story in Stuff motorists were stuck in snow for two freezing hours while arrangements were made to get them over the hill and down to Featherston.

High time motorists realised that the Rimutaka Hill is likely to close in adverse conditions - snow, galeforce winds, major slips and accidents - and make alternative arrangements.

Snow on the hills

Driving west in Masterton this afternoon, the clouds briefly parted, revealing the glorious sight of the Tararua foothills covered in snow.

Snow!

A sense of adventure sent us out for a Sunday drive in the swirling snow, along Upper Plain Road in Masterton, and into the foothills of the Tararua Ranges.