A spate of incidents of animals found wandering on New Zealand highways has NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi urging people to be vigilant about supervision and containment of livestock or pets.

Sometimes it is wild animals also creating hazards on the highways, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) maintenance contract manager Justin Reid said in a statement.

“There have been a number of recent incidents of livestock or other animals loose on highways, which served as a reminder of the risks this can pose.

“Now that winter is here, the risk is greater when the days are shorter and visibility is reduced.

“The potential for serious injury or death is high when a vehicle collides at speed with one of these animals or takes evasive action to avoid a collision.”

Owners may be held responsible when it comes to any damage caused by their animals.

Police said it’s considered an emergency when animals such as livestock are found on the road in uncontrolled circumstances, and people should call 111 to report it.

“In the case of livestock, we would strongly encourage owners or managers to be mindful of their supervision, regularly checking their fences, and taking extra care when moving stock,” Reid said.

“Sometimes it will be beyond peoples’ control when an animal gets loose due to the actions of others or unforeseen circumstances, but it’s all about trying to reduce the potential for harm.”

The impacts of wandering stock on motorists can be profound and long-lasting.