The New Zealand (NZ) Transport Agency is set to commence a two-year trial of the latest icy road warning technology in Otago, New Zealand, next winter.

The technology, which will be tested at five sites in the Coastal Otago area with significant histories of ice related crashes, features a marker that flashes when a road surface becomes frosty.

The PATeye marker developed by New Zealand-based company Solar Bright displays a flashing blue light that warns travellers of icy conditions.

NZ Transport Agency Otago/Southland highway manager Ian Duncan said that there has not been enough frosty weather to collect the pre-trial baseline data the agency needs, and it is likely that the trial will have to be put off until next winter.

"The PATeye marker developed by New Zealand-based company Solar Bright displays a flashing blue light that warns travellers of icy conditions."

The department needs the pre-trial data to help as part of the assessing what effect the markers have on driver behaviour, and whether it causes drivers to slow down because they are more aware the road could be icy.

"The markers have the potential to make an important contribution to the safe roads and safe roadside aspects of the safe system that drives the NZ Transport Agency approach to reducing death and serious injuries on our roads," Duncan added.

Depending on the trail results, the test can be extended to other parts of the country.

This technology aims to be an effective real-time ice warning system, allowing road crews to more effectively target gritting and other ice reduction work, eventually reducing overall winter road maintenance costs.

The Queenstown/Lakes District Council, Central Otago District Council and Dunedin City Council are also trailing the technology on their respective local road networks.