It was a long, slow trip for thousands of holidaymakers trying to get out of our major cities on Tuesday.
Police warned of two-hour delays for those heading north out of Wellington, while a truck crash brought traffic to a standstill near Wellsford, north of Auckland.
Bumper to bumper, with queues lasting for up to seven kilometres - every man and his dog was caught in the traffic jam.
The traffic was at its worst in the northbound lane south of Wellsford, a truck crash this morning temporarily closing one lane and leaving traffic moving at a snail's pace.
While it was a tedious drive for some, others made the most of a frustrating situation.
Police are urging patience - a message that is being embraced by some.
The Transport Agency expects the heavy traffic to continue on Wednesday. If you're heading north out of Auckland, traffic is expected to be lightest first thing in the morning or late afternoon.
Heading south, the afternoon is your best bet.
Wellingtonians wanting to avoid the traffic north will need to be on the road very early.
Newshub.
