Stay safe on the road over Waitangi weekend

Motorways and roads are expected to be very busy this Waitangi weekend as people make the most of the long weekend, and all motorists are asked to play their part in keeping the roads safe and flowing freely.

“Delays in our usual traffic hot spots will affect some drivers but motorists can avoid the busy times and make their journey a more pleasant one,” says Brett Gliddon, the NZ Transport Agency’s Auckland and Northland Highway Manager.

“It can make a considerable difference to your travel times if you choose your getaway and return journey times outside of the peak times.”

The busiest spot in the Auckland region is traditionally SH1 between Puhoi and Wellsford.

Check Waitangi weekend traffic hotspots

Find out where delays are likely over Waitangi weekend

Peak travel times to avoid

Friday’s peak runs through until 8.30 tonight. It then gets very busy again on Saturday from about 8.30am, with the heaviest peaks lasting from 9am all the way through until 2.30pm.

For those heading south on SH1 and on SH2 through Maramarua, there’ll be heavy traffic from lunchtime Friday, with the busiest peak from 2pm until early evening.

Heading home again both Sunday and Monday are busy times for those travelling south on SH1 from Puhoi. Heavy traffic is expected from lunch time until 5pm both days.

Motorists returning to Auckland from the south on SH2 and SH1 can expect the busiest times on Monday from the middle of the day, so travel early to avoid delays. 

Delays along with heat, noisy children and fatigue are all factors that can lead to crashes.

Top tips for a safe drive 

• Ensure everyone travelling with you is wearing a seatbelt.
• Stay alert.
• Watch your speed.
• Be courteous to other road users.
• Drive to the conditions.

More information

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