While the Geon Art Deco Weekend does not officially kick off until next Thursday, traffic authorities are advising motorists, especially in the greater Napier area, to be aware that traffic flows are likely to begin building from Monday as visitors start heading to the Bay.
As well as an upsurge in out-of-town visitors travelling through the region, there would also be a large number of older, slower vintage cars, trucks and motorcycles on the roads.
"We ask people to show extra patience and care when required," a New Zealand Transport Agency spokesman said.
Away from Napier's environs extra patience and care is also being urged on stretches of SH2 north and south, as well as SH5 as road maintenance and reconstruction projects take place.
On SH2, between Napier and Wairoa, road maintenance is being carried out on several sites between Putorino and Raupunga and some slight delays are expected.