8 April 2009

Early start expected to Easter traffic rush in Auckland

The Easter rush will start early on the State Highway network north of Auckland this year, and the NZ Transport Agency is urging travellers to plan journeys to avoid a peak traffic period which will begin at 4pm or earlier on Thursday (9 April).

“Easter this year coincides with the start of the school holidays, which will add to the mid-afternoon build-up of northbound traffic,” said Tommy Parker, the NZTA’s Northern Network Operations Manager.

The NZTA expects the northbound peak period will be repeated again on Good Friday between 10am and 1pm. Traffic counts from the past two Easter weekends have shown a 50 percent increase in the number of vehicles using SH1 between Puhoi and Warkworth compared with mid-week traffic volumes.

“People can beat the traditional congestion bottleneck between Puhoi and Warkworth on SH1 by using SH16 as an alternative,” Mr Parker added. “SH16 has two advantages: it carries a lot less traffic, and it’s a direct route between Auckland and Wellsford that by-passes long hold-ups elsewhere.”

The use of SH16 as a free alternative route is one part of the NZTA’s comprehensive traffic management plan to help travellers have as safe and as an enjoyable journey as possible.

More traffic cameras will be operating along SH1 - including one for the first time at Warkworth which will help the NZTA operate traffic signals in the town more effectively. Roadside electronic signs will also help drivers make choices about the best route they can use.

Drivers using the Northern Gateway Toll Road on SH1 are urged to avoid the need to stop and queue by paying their tolls electronically, Mr Parker said. “Drivers can get best use out of the toll road by paying their tolls before leaving home or when they return.”

The NZTA is extending the hours of its call centre over the weekend for people wanting to use the freephone, 0800 40 20 20, or pay on-line at www.tollroad.govt.nz . They can pay for one, two or multiple trips without the need to open an account.

ENDS