Coronavirus: Kiwis expected to make most of domestic tourism in first weekend of alert level 2

Kiwis have been confined to their bubbles and their cities for the last seven weeks - but as the first weekend of level 2 gets underway thousands of people are expected to hit the road and see the country beyond their windows.

On Friday evening cars are already beginning to stream out of the cities.

New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) traffic cameras show cars queueing on major highways including Auckland's State Highway One near Greenlane - a key route out of the city.

Tourism New Zealand predicts many Kiwis will head up north to the Coromandel to enjoy the last of the sunshine - although some will stick around to explore their own backyards - Waiheke is predicted to be a popular destination for Aucklanders.

In Wellington, people are expected to hit the Wairarapa and Marlborough Districts right on their backdoors. 

Chief executive of Tourism New Zealand Stephen England-Hall says it's vital Kiwis get out and about.

"It's crucial we get back out and start supporting each other," he told Stuff.

"Whether it's buying a coffee, a meal or paying for accommodation (in these regions) it's going to be a massive boost for businesses who really do rely on that domestic spend.