Motorists advised to take extra care as Lions tour begins

Commuters driving to Whangarei for the Lions tour opener tonight are being advised to expect delays as fans make their way into town.

The New Zealand Transport Agency expects delays to be likely in the city and is asking travellers to allow for extra time on their journeys.

NZ Barbarians v @lionsofficial at Toll Stadium 7.35pm tonight means traffic delays likely in Whangarei #AllowExtraTime #LionsNZ2017 ^TP

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Auckland & Northland (@WakaKotahiAkNth) June 2, 2017

NZTA spokeswoman Sarah Azam said traffic was clear around Whangarei this afternoon, and a break in the weather would make for more pleasant driving conditions.

"Traffic isn't heavy at the moment and there are no issues. The weather is clearing, which means people will start driving to the game earlier.

"The clearing weather may space things out a bit."

Azam said motorists should allow "plenty of time" to get to and from Toll Stadium.

She said although the rain is expected to hold off for the game, if the weather does turn foul people should take "extreme care" on the roads.

"People should remember that everyone is in the same boat as you."

NZTA is also warning people to be vigilant for increased traffic during Queen's Birthday Weekend.

Auckland and Northland Highway Manager Brett Gliddon said delays will be inevitable at the busiest travel times.

He said the busiest times will be for those using State Highway 1 heading south towards Puhoi and north towards Takanini from lunchtime until about 6pm.

State Highway 2 coming from Coromandel will also be busy.

"As well as our hot spot information we also encourage motorists to use our real time travel information for the most up to the minute and accurate updates on incidents and the least congested routes.

"We use a range of technology along with teams of people working throughout the long weekend to monitor and manage traffic flows and incidents on the state highway network."

NZTA is also encouraging people to do a safety check on their vehicles before they leave home, allow plenty of time for travel and take regular breaks or share the driving.

Gliddon said th weather will also play a big role in driving conditions and determining the busiest peaks for people returning home.