Auckland motorists heading north reminded to plan ahead

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

Auckland drivers bound for Northland are being urged to plan ahead, exercise caution and be wary around construction sites by Waka Kotahi New Zealand.

The transport agency's work sites close today until January 4 to leave the roads clear for holiday traffic.

But temporary speed limits and road cones will still be in place where there has been road resurfacing.

Waka Kotahi regional relationships director Steve Mutton has reminded motorists to be patient and avoid trying to overtake crews setting up traffic signs and cones.

When motorists ignore the signs, they put at risk their safety along with the safety of other road users and the road workers, he said.

Speeding through work sites is a significant problem, Mutton said.

"Speeding vehicles can flick up loose metal and other objects which are a danger to road workers and other road users.

"Motorists also have less control at higher speeds."

Drivers need to factor holiday congestion and delays into their plans, Mutton said.

Trying to make up lost time by speeding and overtaking dangerously puts everyone using the road in jeopardy, he said.

More traffic is expected to hit Northland roads during the festive season with fewer people travelling overseas due to Covid-19.

“Drivers are urged to be patient, keep to the speed limit and drive to the conditions," Mutton said.

For more information go to journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic,
journeys.nzta.govt.nz or call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)