The Transport Agency (NZTA) is tightening up on letting motorists cross Porter's and Arthur's Passes this winter.
Arthur's Pass can become heavily snowed in winter. Photo: NZTA
Drivers had been allowed to use the main road between Christchurch and the West Coast when it snows as long as they could fit chains, but that will be changing this winter.
The road this season would instead be closed while graders cleared the snow and laid down grit, with vehicles only allowed back once it was safe, NZTA said.
The agency said this would prevent motorists getting stuck and their rescue causing further delays.
A spokesperson said people should still carry chains, and if the road remained closed for several hours road crews would use their discretion about who they let through.