Aucklanders get Easter traffic warning

The Easter rush out of Auckland is expected to start early tomorrow afternoon, with travellers are being urged to plan their trips wisely.

This year Easter coincides with the start of school holidays which will likely boost the numbers taking to the roads after 3pm, New Zealand Transport Agency's northern network operations manager Tommy Parker said.

The agency recommended motorists avoid the peak traffic periods - expected from around 4pm Thursday and a second rush around midday Friday - and consider taking the road less travelled, the western route along State Highway 16 via Helensville.

"People can beat the traditional congestion bottleneck between Puhoi and Warkworth on State Highway 1 by using SH16 as an alternative," Mr Parker said.

"SH16 has two advantages, it carries a lot less traffic, and it's a direct route between Auckland and Wellsford that bypasses long hold-ups elsewhere."

Those taking the Northern Gateway Toll Road were encouraged to pay either via the internet or by phoning 0800 40 20 20 to prevent queues.

NZTA will have extra traffic cameras out on SH1 to keep traffic signals working efficiently. Roadside electronic signs will also be employed to help drivers pick the best path.

In an effort to keep drivers alert and passengers happy, State Insurance said it will be providing `Driver Reviver' sites with free coffee, hot cross buns and `distractions' for kids.

They can be found in Putaruru on Thursday and Friday, and Ruakaka, Ohakea and the Lewis Pass on Monday.

Further south, Kapiti police were hoping the presence of a coffin and hearse by the side of the road will encourage Wellington holiday makers to drive carefully.

The coffin and hearse will be situated near Waikanae, accompanied by emergency service vehicles and the message "Let's not meet by accident".

"We're all trained to deal with some pretty nasty scenes but we'd prefer they didn't happen and that people drove to the conditions, reached their destinations and safely returned home in one piece," Sergeant Ron Walker said.

Police were also employing the soft touch approach, offering free coffee and Easter eggs at their own `Driver Reviver' stop at Waikanae Railway Station.

Nine people died on the roads last Easter weekend. A further 35 were seriously hurt and 160 suffered minor injuries.

- NZPA