Holiday traffic: 'Significant delays' as Auckland holidaymakers return home

Holiday traffic: 'Significant delays' as Auckland holidaymakers return home
Photo credit: File

Returning Auckland holidaymakers are warned to expect "significant delays" as they return home.

"Plan ahead for returning holiday traffic over the coming days as motorists head home, following the Christmas and New Year's break," the New Zealand Transport Agency says on Facebook.

State Highway 1 between Wellsford and Puhoi is congested in both directions this weekend. Northbound travellers are warned to expect "significant delays" starting on Saturday at 11:30am.

Traffic is expected to be busy southbound through this area from 10am to 7pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Motorists are asked to consider using SH16 via Helensville instead.

Further south, there's also congestion on SH1 between Bombay and Manukau. Traffic is expected to be busy northbound through this area from 11am to 6pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

"We know that congestion and delays can be frustrating, but the most important thing is that everyone gets home safely," the NZTA says.

"Please allow extra time for your journey home, be patient and always remember to drive to the conditions."