Gritters on alert in face of freezing weather

The Department of Infrastructure says it's ready to tackle freezing temperatures and wintry showers this week.

Tonight and tomorrow will see temperatures fall below freezing over the hills, bringing the possibility of snow and ice on higher ground.

But the DOI says its gritting crews are ready get out onto main roads to help keep driving conditions safe.

It says it'll prioritise highways with the heaviest traffic, as well as bus routes and roads to hospitals, fire stations and schools.