Xmas traffic exodus 'absolute bedlam'

The Christmas exodus of people leaving Wellington has created a state of "absolute bedlam" on roads leading out of the city.

Police say they have been inundated with calls from motorists complaining over shoddy and dangerous driving from motorists looking to beat the holiday rush and get where they are going a little faster than everybody else.

Police central communications inspector Ken Climo said staff had been flooded with reports of dangerous driving - people running red lights, making passing manoeuvres, and tailgating.

He urged people planning long trips around New Zealand to plan ahead and take their time.

"The worst thing is, people like you and I have to share the roads with these idiots," he told NZPA.

Though heavy volumes of traffic were on the roads, only two crashes had so far been reported.

"We're getting reports of a total lack of respect from some of these idiots on the roads today. The saving grace is probably the weather - it's pretty clear out there and driving conditions are good."

The fine weather was expected to hold over most of the country, until at least Christmas Day, MetService forecaster Heath Gullery said.

"It's a pretty good picture, really," he said.

- NZPA