13 January 2015 NZ Transport Agency

Traffic building up as holidaymakers head home

The NZ Transport Agency is advising motorists that traffic is building up in major highway hotspots as this weekend shapes up to be one of the one of the busiest of the year.

National Travel Information Manager Luigi Cappel says if people must travel this afternoon, it's important they plan ahead for significant delays and remain patient.

"We always get an influx of traffic heading back home after New Years celebrations, and we ask that people leave plenty of time up their sleeve, be considerate to other road users, and understand that other motorists are in the same boat."

"We know people are eager to get home, but it's important that drivers take breaks, keep safe following distances, and stay hydrated as it will be a hot day to be stuck in traffic. If you don't have to travel in the heat of the day, the best times will be after 7pm."

The Transport Agency predicts heavy traffic on key routes throughout New Zealand today as outlined on the Summer Holiday Congestion Hotspots information available for download on our Current Highway Conditions webpage http://www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/current-conditions/index.html. This page provides links to information on road conditions throughout New Zealand including the free email service OnTheMove which provides information on incidents on specified routes or areas.

Mr Cappel says there is already very heavy traffic heading in both directions between Wellsford and Auckland on SH1 with the worst peaks northbound expected to be between 12pm and 4pm and extremely heavy traffic southbound to Auckland between 1 and 3pm today. SH16 is currently a quicker drive back to Auckland than SH1, although both routes will experience delays.

Heavy traffic in both directions on SH2 is expected this afternoon, particularly where the Coromandel traffic joins with traffic to and from the Bay of Plenty.

There are also reports of heavy traffic southbound on SH1 between Te Kauwhata and Huntly.

Passing lanes have been closed on SH1 Otaki in both directions to help ease congestion for people gong to and from Wellington.

There have been no reports of incidents or major congestion in the South Island.

There have been minor accidents reported but generally traffic is running as smoothly as can be expected on such a busy day.

The Transport Agency wishes drivers a safe and enjoyable New Year.

ENDS

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