Motorists face $750 fine for failing to fit snow chains on alpine roads

For the first time, motorists who fail to fit snow chains in icy or snowy conditions on Queenstown Lakes district roads face a $750 fine.

The penalty is enforceable under the Traffic and Parking Bylaw 2025, with police responsible for issuing the infringements.

Council staff or contractors will assess the roads to determine when snow or ice has made conditions unsafe. Enforcement can happen when a “chains required” variable message sign is displayed, or when drivers are instructed to fit chains by police, ski field operators, or council staff and contractors.

Queenstown Lakes District Council strategic asset manager Alison Tomlinson said winter conditions could change quickly, particularly on alpine routes like the Crown Range Road and ski field roads.

Introducing enforcement would help ensure grit trucks could access and clear major routes as quickly as possible, she said.