Traffic chaos: Motorists face flooding, slips and heavy traffic

Traffic is building up around the county as New Zealanders struggle to make it home on Queen's Birthday weekend.

In addition to the normal long queues, their journeys have been hindered by flooding and slips after a weekend of relentless bad weather.

Northland, Auckland, Coromandel and the Bay of Plenty have been hit by heavy rain, covering roads with water and debris. Further south, black ice and snow is a continual threat for motorists.

Several people have already fallen victim to the conditions, with multiple roads blocked earlier on Monday after crashes.

The NZ Transport Agency has set up a traffic hot spot map, showing the areas which are the traditional long weekend congestion points here, as well as predicted peak times.

"Going online to plan your journey before getting on the road reduces the chance of experiencing delays during high traffic flows on the highway," the NZTA says.

"Our online real-time highway information service will tell you whether there are any travel warnings or closures ahead. You can also check out the cameras to see how traffic is moving in and out of the city."

Where to be extra patient and cautious:

Northland

Motorists face delays on SH11 from Paihia to Kawakawa to Lemon's Hill after a large slip. One lane of the highway is currently open while work continues to clear the slip.

Auckland

SH1 heading south from Wellsford to Puhoi has been hit by congestion. Delays are expected to last until 7pm.

Waikato

Flooding debris has been left on SH25 between Thames and Manaia. Motorists are advised to take extra care.

The Barry Rd/Golden Valley Bridge near Waihi has been closed until it's been inspected for damage.

Bay of Plenty and Gisborne

Several roads in the Bay of Plenty have been closed after flooding, including Paroa and Mangatokerau Rds at Tolaga Bay, Pa Rd, Waiomoko, Arakihi, Kiore Rd, Anaura Bay Rd, Kaiaua, Waihau Bay, Glenroy and Tauwhareparae.

Hawkes Bay

Warnings are in place for SH5 between Glengarry and Bay View, and SH2 between Tangoio and Tutira.

Taranaki

A 30km/h speed restriction is in place near the Mt Messenger Tunnel on SH3 after a slip.

Canterbury

There is a risk of ice on the roads, and motorists are warned to take care between Tekapo and Fairlie on SH8.

Otago

Snow has impacted roads in the Otago region, and road users are urged to take extra care. Black ice is also a problem.

Southland

Ice is a danger in Southland. SH1 has been closed between Gore to Balclutha after a crash, while a temporary speed limit has been placed on SH96 Wreys Bush to Dunearn due to slippery road conditions.

Newshub.

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