New Zealand Driving Holidays - Beach Driving
Driving Safety on 90 Mile Beach and other Sandy Beaches
Jul 29, 2009
The New Zealand Automobile Association, Northland tourism promoters and motorists who have been there, advise the following precautions for anyone planning a driving trip along New Zealand's 90 Mile Beach. The same advice can be applied to driving on sandy beaches anywhere.
Firstly, consider insurance. Most insurance policies won't cover vehicles driven on beaches. Drivers should read their rental car or private vehicle insurance contracts before setting out to know what that might be liable for should the worst happen.
Beach Driving - Preparing a Four Wheel Drive Vehicle for Driving on a Sandy Beach
Drivers who decide to go ahead with their trip can prepare their vehicles for the sandy beach terrain by spraying some form of water repellent on the ignition system – CRC is a common brand. They should also check they have appropriate tyre pressure for the terrain.
If using a four weel drive vehicle, motorists should ensure they know exactly how to engage and disengage four-wheel drive mode. It's surprising how many people own four-wheel drive vehicles but have never actually had cause to use them in that mode. Note that some models require the driver to get out of the cab and adjust the vehicle's hub cap settings before four-wheel drive mode can be established. Other systems are activated from the gear box alone. A few minutes spent perusing the vehicle's manual can save a lot of frustration later. If the manual is missing, replacement manuals can usually be downloaded for free from the Internet.
Once at their driving destination, motorists shoiuld take some time near a populated or other safe area (eg one that is not subject to a rising tide) to familiarise themself with beach driving in four-wheel mode before beginning the trip proper.
Driving Holidays on Sandy Beaches are Fun but Follow Local Advice About Driving Safety
It is also advisable to get local information as to tide and recommended travelling times on sandy beaches. Those in the know about New Zealand's 90 Mile Beach recommend scheduling trips for two to three hours after high tide. Drivers should also find out how long they can safely allow for the drive. Those who decide to stop for a spot of fishing should take care not to get carried away by the experience or the incoming tide!
Check fuel levels as there are no gas stations in remote areas. Motorists who run out on 90 Mile Beach could hike out but there would be no chance of returning with a jerry can to save their vehicle before the next incoming tide.
Likewise, motorists should exercise common sense in deciding the path to take along sandy beaches. They should bear it in mind that cell phone coverage in some remote locations is often minimal or nil. Even if a distressed motorist on 90 Mile Beach could phone for help (they couldn't), tow truck assistance wouldn't reach them before the incoming tide.
On sandy beaches such as 90 Mile Beach, drivers are advised to take their lead from more experienced drivers. If the tyre tracks of tourist buses are visible, other motorists should follow them.
Drivers who find themselves stuck in soft sand could try lowering their vehicle's tyre pressure to improve traction.
When crossing streams that flow across a sandy beach, motorists are advised to slow down, engage a lower gear (to prevent stalling) and drive steadily without stopping or speeding.
Motorists should always listen to the weather forecast before setting out. Wet weather and seasonal conditions can cause a rapid deterioration in stream and beach conditions.
The tide will take care of tyre tracks and footprints but that's all visitors should leave. All litter should be removed by those who generate it.
On completing the trip, drivers should take the first opportunity to hose down their vehicles. Salt is extremely corrosive.
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