With the 2026 grape harvest underway, drivers in Marlborough are urged to stay alert for harvesting machinery on the region’s roads and highways.

Wayne Oldfield, Marlborough System Manager, says the grape harvest season sees an increase in heavy machinery moving between vineyards from now until mid-April, with activity peaking in the middle of March. 

“During this busy period, it is really important for everyone using our roads to take extra care during the grape harvest.”

 “There will be harvesters and heavy trucks out and about as vineyards work hard to produce this year’s vintage,” Mr Oldfield says.

“Everyone in Marlborough, whether you’re local, visiting the region or travelling through, can expect to see activity on all of the region’s state highways – SH1, SH6, SH62, and SH63 – as well on local roads – driving appropriately when encountering harvesters or trucks is important.”

“Safe passing is critical. Trucks and harvesting machines are large and take up a lot of space. Extra care is needed for judging passing distances, looking out for oncoming traffic, and for trucks and harvesters entering and leaving vineyards,” Mr Oldfield says.

The safety message also applies to vineyards. their operations, and their staff too.

Mr Oldfield says they too must take care when moving machinery between vineyards, and truck drivers taking grapes to be pressed should drive with caution, particularly through roundabouts.

“Losing a load of grapes is not only bad for the vintage, but also for traffic as grape spills are a safety hazard as the make roads slippery. Contractors also have to clean the spills up, which creates delays for drivers.”

“We want everyone to be safe while the grape harvest is underway. A little care, consideration, and cooperation will help keep everyone safe,” Mr Oldfield says.