Scooping up dead possums and hedgehogs is one of the tasks under way as part of NZTA’s pre-winter highways maintenance programme.
NZTA Central Otago maintenance contract manager Peter Standring explained the important of removing the squashed critters.
"Every possum or hedgehog has the potential to become a pothole if it isn’t removed in a timely fashion.
"When the remains break down and decay, the fats and oils soften the seal underneath, potentially creating a pothole."
Aspiring Highways crews, on behalf of NZTA, had also completed hours of painting, litter-picking, filling potholes, sign replacement, cleaning, rockfall prevention and tree-felling.
"All of this work is to ensure the safety of every road user as well as the efficiency of the network," Mr Standring said.
"Our crews are out on the road daily and take a real pride in the work they deliver."
These activities complemented the annual resealing and road rehabilitation work on Central Otago, Queenstown and Wānaka highways.
Mr Standring acknowledged some of the works resulted in delays or temporary lower speed limits.
"We always appreciate the public’s patience when the team carry out these works." — APL
