Traffic hot spots identified for Labour Weekend drivers

SH29, Kaimai and SH2 between Paeroa and Tauranga, have been identified as traffic hotspots ahead of Labour Weekend. Photo / File

The New Zealand Transport Agency has identified traffic hotspots to help drivers plan their upcoming Labour Weekend travels.

The maps collate information from previous Labour Weekend journeys on the times where traffic is heaviest.

The maps have identified SH29, Kaimai (west of Tauranga) and SH2, between Paeroa and Tauranga as the heaviest congestion areas for the Bay of Plenty.

Agency journey manager Nigel D'Ath said people should consider avoiding travel during the times of heaviest congestion or at least be forewarned on what to expect.

"Increased traffic volumes, tiredness and driving in unfamiliar environments can make driving over these long weekends more stressful.

"Remember you're sharing the road with many others you have a responsibility to be courteous and patient to ensure you look after yourself, your families and other road users," said D'Ath.

Drivers can find more personalised information about driving conditions on their frequently used routes, by signing sign up to On The Move at www.onthemove.govt.nz

For real-time information on highway conditions and incidents or to report issues on the network visit www.nzta.govt.nz, call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS.

NZ Transport Agency's top tips for a safe Labour Day Weekend

• Allow plenty of time, make your journey part of the holiday.
• Rest stops are important for the driver and passengers.
• If possible, share the driving.
• Wear your seatbelt and check your passengers are belted up after every break.
• Keep left of the centreline.
• Take extreme care if overtaking, ensure you have plenty of room to pass safely. If cars are backed up behind you, pull over at a safe spot and relieve the pressure. If you are following a slower vehicle, give it room and keep everyone's stress levels down.
• Maintain a three-second gap when following vehicles in front
• Check your vehicle is safe - tyres/spare tyre, indicators, windshield wipers, lights - before you head away.

Hotspots in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato

SH29 - Kaimai (west of Tauranga)
SH2 - between Paeroa and Tauranga
SH2 - around Mangatawhiri and Maramarua
SH25A - around the intersection with SH26 near Kopu
SH1 Taupiri (north of Hamilton)
SH1 Karapiro (south of Cambridge)