Travel early for RWC 2011 quarter-finals advises NZTA

Tens of thousands of rugby fans will be on the move across Auckland this weekend and the NZ Transport Agency says people should plan to travel early to reach Eden Park or the city's RWC 2011 fan zones safely and on time.

“We’re expecting that traffic will be heavy on the motorways for the quarter final games on Saturday and Sunday and we’ll be doing everything to keep our network flowing smoothly,” says the NZTA’s State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland, Tommy Parker. “Tow trucks will be parked near the Auckland Harbour Bridge to respond quickly to clear any vehicle breakdown, and we will be will using our motorway electronic messages boards to keep drivers informed of traffic conditions ahead .”

Mr Parker says traffic could be heavy around the harbour bridge and at the St Lukes interchange on the Northwestern Motorway (State Highway 16), which is close to Eden Park.

“We would encourage people to hop on a bus or train, or walk the fan trail to Eden Park – it reduces the risk of being caught in congestion or trying to find a place to park,” he adds. “If fans decide to drive, allow plenty of time to drive and park.”

Mr Parker says the 8.30pm start for the games means both will be finishing late, and he urges people to drive with patience and care when they return home.

“We don’t want an exciting weekend of international rugby marred by an avoidable road crash,” he says.