Winter road closures
Road Conditions and Closures
Winter is nearly here, and to prevent seasonal damage to backcountry roads, Central Otago District Council is temporarily closing several roads to motor vehicles.
Driving on unsealed roads in icy, wet, or snowy conditions can cause serious damage. It creates safety risks, cuts off access for the whole community, and means much higher repair costs down the track.
The closures will take effect from midnight on Tuesday, 2 June 2026.
Following several public requests, five new roads are being added to the winter closure schedule this year:
- Mount Buster Road, starting 4.7km from Danseys Pass Road to the Waitaki District Boundary.
- Little Kyeburn Road, starting 5.1km from Danseys Pass Road to Mt Buster Road.
- Serpentine Road, from Linnburn Runs Road to Lake Onslow Road.
- Linnburn Runs Road (Blackball), between Loganburn Ford Road and Puketoi Runs Road.
- Long Valley Ridge Road, from Old Dunstan Road to Serpentine Road.
Quinton Penniall, General Manager - Planning and Infrastructure, says the approach has a track record and so adding other roads to the closure program makes sense this year.
“This has proven to be an effective way of limiting damage that is costly and difficult to repair during the winter months,” he said.
“We do encourage anyone wanting us to consider closing any other roads to reach out.”
Affected farmers and residents have been contacted directly and provided with access as needed. Gates have been upgraded and signage will be installed ahead of the closure.
Opening dates depend on weather conditions and may need to be extended.
Before planning a trip into the backcountry, visit our website for the full list of affected roads and the latest status updates:
