Stay safe in heavy Easter Weekend traffic

Heavy traffic is expected on the roads this long Easter Weekend. Photo / George Novak

Kiwis heading away this long Easter Weekend are being urged to be extra careful on the roads with heavy traffic expected around the country.

Associate Transport Minister Craig Foss said one death on the roads is too many.

Over last year's official Easter road toll period, there were 102 reported serious crashes which the death of one passenger, 29 serious injuries and 114 minor injuries. Almost half of the crashes happened on the open road.

So far this year, 75 people have died on New Zealand roads and Mr Foss said this was a "stark reminder that we must remain focused on road safety at all times, and remember not only the victims, but the families, friends and communities left behind".

Mr Foss said six simple steps drivers can take to help keep themselves and other road users safe:

• Drive sober

• Stick within the speed limit

• Pull over for a short rest when tired

• Keep focused on the road

• Be patient with other road users

• Wear a seatbelt and make sure passengers do too.

"There are some major road works going on around the country which may contribute to delays. Factoring extra time into your journey will reduce stress and the likelihood of making silly mistakes," Mr Foss said.