The New Zealand Transport Agency has revealed its tips and tricks for a safe and stress-free summer on the road.
With Kiwis already ditching the cities to hit the beach, NZTA is encouraging people to plan ahead for their summer road trips.
NZTA journey manager Kingston Brands said using the online holiday journeys traffic prediction tool, people can plan their trips and avoid the worst delays.
"If you're heading north or south out of Auckland or Whangarei, it's worth checking before you get on the road so that you know what to expect," Brands said.
"The busiest times heading south of Auckland will start from Friday until Wednesday with the heaviest traffic between 11am and 2pm."
He said people heading north of Auckland can expect the same traffic rush from Friday until the following Friday between 9:30am and 3pm.
"If you're planning on heading further north from Whangarei, it'll be busiest on Thursday and Friday between midday and 5pm," he said.
He said there will be a significant increase in temporary traffic management and increased travel time due to the summer maintenance programme.
"To get an understanding of what's happening on the network, and for real time updates, please use our Journey Planner tool and allow extra time for your journey," he said,
"More cars on the road, tired drivers and people driving on unfamiliar roads can all add up to make holiday driving stressful and risky. But there are simple things we can all do to stay safe.
"Plan ahead, drive sober, watch out for signs of fatigue, keep your speeds down and drive to the conditions. Everyone should check that their car is safe before heading off and think about sharing the driving on long trips," Brands said.
Tips for safe driving on your summer holiday:
- Drive to the conditions, allow plenty of time and take regular breaks to stay alert.
- Be patient when driving this summer so everyone can relax and enjoy the holidays together.
- Keep a safe following distance from vehicles in front so you can stop safely.
- Drive to the conditions - whether it's the weather, the road you're on, the time of day or the volume of traffic on the roads.
- Take regular breaks to stay alert.
- Allow plenty of time. You're on holiday, no need to rush.
NZTA also warns people should check their vehicle is safe to drive before setting off on their holiday.
This includes checking the Warrant of Fitness or Certificate of Fitness is up-to-date on any vehicle you plan to drive, including rentals.
How to check your vehicle yourself:
- Tyres - minimum tread is 1.5mm but the more tread, the better the grip.
- Lights - check that all lights work so your vehicle is visible in poor light.
- Indicators - ensure all indicators work so people know which direction you are moving.
- Windscreen and wipers - check for wear and tear so you can see the road safely.
