Traffic hotspots this long weekend

Potential long weekend traffic hotspots have been released.

The NZ Transport Agency has encouraged motorists heading away this Waitangi Weekend to plan their journey and travel outside peak times to avoid delays.

State highways in the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Coromandel are expected to be extremely busy from 1.30pm on Friday when holiday traffic begins to hit the roads.

"On some highways, such as SH1 between Auckland and the Waikato and SH2 between Paeroa and Tauranga vehicle numbers are estimated to more than double as people race to relax on the beach this long weekend," Transport Agency journey manager Nigel D'Ath said.

"We expect traffic volumes to be heavy in both directions, so it is important that motorists are prepared for delays, are patient, and drive to the conditions."

Mr D'Ath said the combination of more vehicles on the road, driver fatigue and other stressful things like heat and traffic delays contribute to making the roads riskier during the holidays.

Mr D'Ath said drivers would be able to get the latest updates on travel routes and delays on their Twitter and Facebook pages.

The Transport Agency has also compiled a snapshot of traffic hotspots based on previous Labour Weekend congestion available on www.nzta.govt.nz/hotspots

To minimise delays road works around the Waikato and Bay of Plenty will be stopped from midday Friday until 10am on Tuesday.

Sites that may cause delays following the long weekend are detailed below to help people plan their journey.
Takitimu Drive Toll Road (formerly Route K)
Motorists travelling southbound on Tauranga's Takitimu Toll Road are advised to drive with extra care next week as contractors continue work on the foundations of a new road sign gantry.
Work starts on the concrete foundation on Tuesday February 3 (weather permitting) and will continue for two weeks. A speed restriction and lane closures will be in place at times during the work. The gantry will be erected in March.

SH2 between Tauranga and Waihi
Motorists travelling on SH2 between Tauranga and Waihi are urged to drive with extra care over the next four months as work gets underway on a major safety upgrade.
A section of highway between Wainui South Road and Sargent Drive will be repaired and widened, and a wire rope central median barrier installed to prevent head on crashes.
Work started this month and is expected to wrap up in early May.
People should only expect minor delays but are urged to stay alert behind the wheel as there will be significant changes including lane closures, speed restrictions and occasional stop/go traffic management.

SH36 - Mangorewa Gorge
Motorist travelling between Tauranga and Rotorua on SH36 are advised to expect delays over the next month as contractors carry out rockfall prevention work in the Mangorewa Gorge. Speed restrictions and traffic lights will be in place at times from February 9. Please allow an extra 10 minutes for your journey.