Busy time expected on the roads from Friday | infonews.co.nz New Zealand News

With school holidays looming, the holiday Labour Weekend on the horizon, and thousands of RWC fans still travelling around New Zealand, an increase in traffic on our roads from this Friday is inevitable. The Acting Bay of Plenty District Road Policing Manager, Senior Sergeant Stu Nightingale, says extra traffic is anticipated particularly along the District's main routes through the Central North Island and Bay of Plenty, including State Highways 1, 5, 29, 2 and 33. "If you are intending to do any travelling over the next few weeks, now is the time to start planning," says Senior Sergeant Nightingale. "Every parent knows how hectic it can get trying to keep the children entertained and organise trips away, so our advice is to start planning now before the school break begins. "Think about what you need for your trip, take the opportunity to give your vehicle a health check and plan out routes and departure times that allow for plenty of rest stops. "We are expecting extra traffic this year because of the rugby and many of these will be overseas visitors not familiar with our roads. The communities of New Zealand have so far shown rugby fans that we are a friendly and hospitable country. It would be a shame for that reputation marred because of frustrated drivers during a busy holiday break. With a little planning you can make sure every journey is a safer journey." Senior Sergeant Nightingale says Police have had a visible presence on the roads since the Rugby World Cup began, and this will continue over the coming weeks and over the long weekend. "Those travelling over the speed limit can expect to be stopped and held accountable, and everyone stopped should expect to be breath-tested. "We would also ask visitors to New Zealand to familiarise themselves with the local road rules, particularly around our drink driving rules and importantly, the fact that we drive on the left hand side of the road." Senior Sergeant Nightingale also asks drivers to be extra vigilant around schools this Friday afternoon, as excited children finish up for the holidays. "Unfortunately their excitement can get in the way of their common sense so its important for drivers to take some of the responsibility for being safe around schools. "Above all, please travel safely!" General tips to help your holiday trip run smoothly. <ul> <li> Have your car serviced or at least do some basic maintenance checks - oil, water, wiper blades and tyres. Most tyre companies will provide pressure checks, top-us and puncture repairs for free.</li> <li> Map out your route.</li> <li> Check the weather and road conditions and drive to those conditions.</li> <li> Have a full tank of fuel and on a long trip work out in advance where you intend to re-fuel. Remember not all service stations are open 24hrs.</li> <li> Don't just re-fuel your vehicle. Take regular rest breaks. New Zealand has a great cafe coffee culture so make the most of it. Keep bottled water in the vehicle to ensure you stay hydrated.</li> <li> Make sure there is plenty to keep children occupied. Bored and restless children are a distraction and can stress a driver.</li> <li> Keep an emergency pack to hand with water, snacks, warm clothing and a first aid kit in case or a breakdown. If you have a mobile phone make sure it is fully charged for an emergency but remember it is now against the law to use it while driving.</li> </ul> REMEMBER: <ul> <li> Don't drink and drive</li> <li> Keep your speed down</li> <li> Be patient and courteous to other road users</li> <li> To report a traffic incident dial *555</li> <li> Road safety is everyone's responsibility!</li> </ul>