1025 days ago

We Say/You Say: Winter Driving

Reporter Hamilton Press

Hi Hamilton,

Have you had any close shaves because of hazardous winter road conditions?

There were several crashes on Monday morning in the Waikato region as a result of icy conditions.

Black ice is incredibly difficult to spot for the average motorist and the AA recommends drivers pay attention to the weather conditions the night before setting out.

Temperatures below zero, valleys and dips in the road and shaded areas where the road won't warm up as quickly are all factors in black ice formation.

"You don't want to slam on your brakes if you do get onto ice and feel the vehicle starting to slide. That's actually likely to make the vehicle go more out of control," AA spokesman Dylan Thomsen said.

Multiple precautions are taken by Waka Kotahi (NZTA) to improve the safety during the winter.

The agency contracts Downer workers to drive hundreds of kilometres along stretches to detect wet patches of road as they are freezing.

Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA) is sprayed on roads and bridges in very cold areas to stop ice from forming. The chemical acts by lowering the freezing temperature of the water.

Accidents are also mitigated when asphalt is sprinkled on at-risk stretches of road.

Share your thoughts below and don't forget to type NFP if you don't want your comment featured in the Hamilton Press.

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3 days ago

Have you heard about this Hamilton petition?

The Team Reporter from Hamilton Press

A group of Hamilton business owners have started a petition to stop the council from hiking up rates and passing the cost of what they say are unpopular projects on to residents.

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2 days ago

Have you ever wondered what happens and who is involved when a death occurs... Join us for this free seminar.

Jordan from Legacy Funerals

Sponsored by Legacy Funerals Hamilton

Join us for a comprehensive seminar at Legacy Funerals Hamilton on Tuesday, 30th April 2024, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, located at 513 Anglesea Street, Hamilton.



This informative event is designed to shed light on the various aspects and services involved when dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Enjoy a selection of nibbles while gaining insights from a wide range of experts including the ACC Accidental Death Team, Work and Income representatives, DTI Lawyers specialising in Wills and Estates, a Celebrant, Funeral Director, New Zealand Police, an Embalmer, and representatives from Legacy Trust Pre-Paid Funerals, The Grief Centre, Hamilton Park Cemetery and Crematorium, Hospice Waikato, and Residential Eldercare Services.

Please note, spaces are limited, and to ensure your place, RSVP is essential by Friday, 26th April 2024, via email to jordan@legacyfunerals.co.nz.

This seminar promises to be an invaluable resource for anyone wanting to understand the services and support available during such a crucial time. Don't miss this opportunity to have your questions answered by our knowledgeable speakers.

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3 days ago

Did you submit on the city council's long-term plan?

The Team Reporter from Hamilton Press

Hamiltonians have spoken out on the council’s budget plans with the city’s massive proposed rates hike a lightning rod for residents already struggling with rising costs.

With more than 3000 submissions landing on the Hamilton City Council’s Draft Long Term Plan the hot topic is unsurprisingly the proposed 19.9% rise, which itself lands in a cost of living crisis and limping economy.

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