With traffic already building on key highways, the NZ Transport Agency encourages everyone heading off for a break to “know before you go” and check the Agency’s Labour Weekend Hotspots map.
The Hotspots maps http://www.nzta.govt.nz/hotspots(external link) collate information from previous Labour Weekend journeys on the times where traffic is heaviest.
There are lots of local events on around the South Island which may affect state highways or create short detours. For example, Southland Transport’s Invercargill Truck Parade(external link) on Sunday after 1 pm, cutting across State Highway 1.
As well as State Highway 1 between Picton and Invercargill, the highways in and around Queenstown will also be busy every day of the long weekend.
“Increased traffic volumes, tiredness and driving in unfamiliar environments can make driving over these long weekends not only more stressful but also more risky,” says the Transport Agency’s Journey Manager Lee Wright.
She reminded everyone to “Buckle up Buttercup”(external link) – the NZ Police’s key message given the rise in drivers and passengers not wearing their seat belts.
“When traffic is heavy and driving conditions are less than ideal, a safe speed might be lower than the posted limit. We’re urging everyone to be patient, relax, and enjoy the journey.”
Link to the Labour Weekend holiday Hotspots for all of New Zealand here.(external link)
