State Highway 73 near Arthur’s Pass Village has reopened after a suspected tallow spill and rain created a dangerous slippery surface.

Road users are being urged to take extra care through the area.

The highway between Arthur’s Pass and Otira was closed earlier this morning after reports of several trucks sliding on the route.

A combination of rain and a substance spilled on the road, believed to be tallow, caused hazardous conditions for road users.

Roading crews have since dealt with the issue and the road has reopened.