22 May 2013

Getting to grips with chains

People will be able to get one-on-one tuition on how to put on chains as Queenstown Lakes District Council holds the first of its popular chain fitting workshops this weekend.

The workshops were reintroduced last year to help first time chain users become familiar with chain fitting techniques and also provide a refresher course for those who may not have used them for a while.

QLDC transport manager Denis Mander says the workshops attracted good numbers last year.

“There are six workshops being held across the district, four in Queenstown and two in Wanaka,” he said.

“We’ve chosen high visibility venues where there is good vehicle and foot traffic so we’re easy to find. People can see chains being fitted, ask questions, get advice and there will be opportunities for us show them how to fit their own chains on their own vehicles.”

Mr Mander said no appointment was necessary and people could turn up at any time during the workshop. Tutorials on fitting chains to personal vehicles would not be available at the Village Green workshops due to parking constraints.

QLDC would also be issuing daily road reports from Monday 27 May onwards.

“We’re heading towards the coldest months of the year and preparation is key for everyone travelling on local roads,” Mr Mander said.

“Carry chains and check the conditions before leaving are two of the things you need to do to be prepared.”

Road reports will be available on the Council website by 7am every day. They would also be available on the Council’s Facebook page and via Twitter. People could also get the Twitter reports (along with all other Council tweets) sent directly to their phone using Twitter Fast Follow.

More information on winter driving and road reports can be found on the QLDC website www.qldc.govt.nz

Chain Fitting Workshops 2013

ENDS

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