Heavy traffic halts commuters after Wellington Anniversary weekend

Traffic is heavy in Wellngton this morning. Photo / NZTA

Motorists returning to work after a long weekend in Wellington had a nasty surprise this morning, with heavy traffic backing up in some parts.

A New Zealand Transport Agency spokeswoman said there was congestion between Poplar Ave and Mackays Crossing at the start of the morning peak.

#HeavyCongestion: Southbound between Poplar Ave and Mackays Crossing. Expect delays or to delay travel if possible. ^MF pic.twitter.com/Lm8NbwbI8u

— Waka Kotahi Wellington (@WakaKotahiWgtn) January 23, 2017

"Temporary traffic management was in place to allow crews to clear slips from Coast Rd. This, combined with commuters returning to work after the Wellington Anniversary long weekend, caused some delays."

She said the delays were now beginning to ease.

UPDATE: Congestion in the area is starting to ease. ^MF https://t.co/0CLkhbVWuu

— Waka Kotahi Wellington (@WakaKotahiWgtn) January 23, 2017

"The temporary traffic management has now been lifted and the delays in that area are now starting to ease."