The grit in the form of fine rocks that are spread onto these areas prove to be a major hazard long after the ice has thawed. These small stones are large enough to become projectiles that will crack and chip your vehicle window. Personally I replace one window per winter season and considering that I don’t spend the whole winter in NZ or do a lot of country driving you can see the potential threat.

Although a window chip or crack is not a personal hazard it does however usually result in the vehicle failing the statutory warrant of fitness that all vehicle in New Zealand are required to obtain. For this reason all hire car companies will carefully inspect the front windscreen for any signs of damage that was incurred during the period of hire. If you have received a stone chip or crack then you will be liable for the cost of the replacement.

In a previous post I outlined the potential New Zealand hire car insurance pitfalls and the additional excess damage cover that may or may not cover you against this expense.

Many NZ hire car companies offer an additional window and glass cover. It pays to use a company that you can either purchase insurance that has no excess or purchase a glass coverage.

Black ice has been reported in areas that seldom experience this winter phenomenon and travellers that are unaccustomed to harsh winter driving conditions are being warned to stay off the roads until later in the day.

Grit trucks have been busy in all the usual black spots but with the early and very cold winter thus far, many areas that are not on the road maintenance radar are experiencing problems with ice.

Local knowledge is the best way to know which route proposes risks. This information is best gained by listing to the local radio morning road reports if frosts or negative overnight temperatures are experienced. If in doubt, delaying your driving to mid morning or later is the most sensible option.