While the sun's beaming down and the beach is waiting, thousands of Kiwis are sitting in traffic.
The temptation to quickly get to the bach can lead to dangerous driving, says Supt Steve Greally, the national manager for road policing.
- Tips to avoid traffic madness this holiday season
- Heavy traffic as Kiwis head off for Christmas break
- Police issue stern warning for speeding drivers over holiday period
With that in mind, it's important to remember the rules of the road.
"We all want to go on holiday, we all have people we want to see, so let's all do our best to drive safely and watch our speed," he says.
"We want everyone to get where they're going safely".
The holiday period began on Friday at 4pm and will end at 6am on January 7.
Don't forget that anyone observed going over 4km/h over the speed limit should expect to be ticketed by the police.
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) says drivers should expect to see more vehicles on the road, which means a greater risk of collisions.
With holidaygoers off exploring the country or making their way to meet family, a lot of drivers will be on unfamiliar roads.
The heat, lack of familiarity of the area, traffic and noisy children can all create increased stress for drivers.
The NZTA advises planning ahead, being alert to changes in road layouts and traffic, driving to the conditions, and watching out for fatigue.
Before you get on the road it's best to check your vehicle has had its safety checks, the warrant of fitness is up to date, and you have enough petrol to get to your destination.
The warm weather also means there may be more cyclists out on the roads, and it'd best to give them plenty of room to keep safe. It's also important that cyclists wear visible gear on the roads.
The silly season means more people driving between friends and families.
Don't forget that for drivers over 20 years, having a little alcohol and driving is fine, but the legal blood alcohol limit is still 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood or 250 micrograms per litre of breath.
Those under 20 cannot drink and then drive - period.
Officers will still have discretion in how they deal with incidents and how they are enforced.
Newshub.
