New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) road safety director Ernst Zollner said no holiday should be marred by an avoidable tragedy.
"Deaths and serious injuries on our roads are not inevitable and every one of us has the power to make good decisions, which will keep the roads safer for everyone."
He said more cars on the road, tired drivers and driving on unfamiliar roads could all add to the risk of driving during the holiday season.
"That means keeping your guard up and keeping your speed down, driving sober, watching for signs of fatigue and sharing the driving."
The NZTA has published snapshots of highway routes around the country with dates and times noting where traffic congestion was particularly heavy at the same time last year.
The NZTA predicts congestion will be similarly heavy at the same times this year.
The agency's Auckland and Northland highway manager Brett Gliddon said it was the busiest time of year on the roads as people headed away to be with family and friends.
"The agency understands how frustrating it can be for motorists who are faced with delays and we do everything we can to manage holiday traffic on the highway network."
Drivers are advised to avoid travel during the heaviest congestion times, listed in bold on the maps, and are encouraged to use the agency's real-time data about travel times.
To minimise delays, road works outside of the main centres, barring emergency repairs, have now stopped and won't resume again until the second week of January.
For more information about road works around the country the NZTA is advising motorists to keep an eye on its Summer Journeys website.
"This saves stress and extra time on the road," said Mr Gliddon.
"We understand how frustrating it can be to encounter speed restrictions and delays, which is why we're giving people information now so they can make better choices about when to travel and how much time to allow."
He advised motorists to slow down through road works and respect reduced speed limits.
Sources of information to help motorists
• Road works and detours information is at www.nzta.govt.nz/summerjourneys
• Phone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or follow the transport agency on Facebook, nztaakl or Twitter @nztaakl.
• Set up personalised email alerts at www.onthemove.govt.nz
• Highway information www.highwayinfo.govt.nz
Advice for motorists
• Wear a seatbelt
• Wear a helmet on motorcycles and bicycles
• Drive within the speed limit
• Drive to the conditions
• Drive sober
• Take regular rest breaks
• Be patient - it's not a race
