Police urge drivers to exercise caution on the roads this Queen's Birthday weekend

Police will be present on roads during Queen's Birthday weekend as heavy traffic approaches the region. Photo / Duncan Brown

It's the last long weekend for a few months and Hawke's Bay police and The New Zealand Transport Agency are urging drivers to exercise caution on the roads.

Senior journey manager Neil Walker said it was important for travellers to plan their journeys to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

"Going online to plan your journey before getting on the road reduces the chance of experiencing delays during high traffic flows on the highway. Our online real-time highway information service will tell you whether there are any travel warnings or closures ahead," he said.

The New Zealand Transport Agency has also set up a traffic hot spot map, showing the areas which identify long weekend congestion points, as well as predicted peak times.
State Highway 5- Te Pohue, is one of these hot spots.

Neil Walker strongly recommends drivers use the guide, especially if they're planning for long journeys.

"It's important to remember predicted peak times can change based on incidents, weather and changes in driver travel patterns."

Eastern District Traffic Alcohol Group Senior Constable Andy Clinton is also advising caution around congestion, fatigue and drivers in unfamiliar environments.

"During these times police urge that all drivers be courteous, remember to share the road with others and to schedule frequent breaks."

"There are more drink-driving incidents during holiday periods and Eastern District Police will be out in force targeting these drivers and getting them off our roads over Queen's Birthday weekend."

Police will be monitoring State Highways around the region and remind drivers to follow others at a safe distance in case the driver in front stops suddenly.

"There is a high number of roadworks throughout Hawke's Bay at the moment and special care is need around these, especially at busy times such as holiday weekends. When you see a roadworks sign, always slow down and be ready to stop."

Hawke's Bay road policing manager Matt Broderick is also urging caution, especially when it comes to distracted drivers.

"About a third of death and serious injuries on the roads involve alcohol and/or drugs. Make plans to get home safely. Distracted drivers are not safe. Turn off your mobile device while you are driving. Nothing is so important as to risk not arriving at all, just to answer a message."

"The outcome of any mistake leading to a crash is always determined by the speed. More speed results in more impact forces," he said.