With bad weather forecast across the Waikato & Bay of Plenty region tonight and tomorrow, Tuesday, July 12, Waka Kotahi is urging drivers to take special care on the roads.

Metservice is forecasting potential heavy rain across the region, particularly the Bay of Plenty, Taupō and Tūrangi, between the hours of 10pm tonight and mid-afternoon tomorrow.

It is expected that some areas will experience up to 150mm of rain during this time, with peak rates of up to 25mm/h.

High winds are also expected throughout the region during this time.

Waka Kotahi System Manager, Roger Brady, says people need to be vigilant on the roads when the weather is bad.

'With high winds forecast, we want high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists to take extra care, especially in exposed areas. Please, drive to the conditions and follow all advisory warnings. Also, consider delaying your trip if it's not necessary. If you don't have to be on the roads, don't be. Stay home and stay safe," says Roger.

For those who do have to travel, Roger says to check the road conditions before you go.

'Our journeys website is regularly updated with the latest information covering delays, roadworks and road closures. Taking a few minutes to check it before you head out can save you a lot of time and hassle."

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey. Waka Kotahi suggests keeping up to date with:

• COVID-19 services update: govt.nz/COVID19
• Traffic updates: nzta.govt.nz/traffic
• Facebook: facebook.com/NZTAWaikatoBoP
• Twitter: twitter.com/WakaKotahiWaiBP
• Journey planner: journeys.nzta.govt.nz
• Phone: 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)