With another scorcher of a long weekend coming up, it is safe to assume that the traffic in our area this weekend will be nightmarish.

Last weekend (Auckland Anniversary Weekend) saw queues going into Warkworth from all directions for most of the weekend, and traffic was still at a standstill in Warkworth at 8:00 p.m. on Monday evening. 

On top of the usual hordes of holiday makers this long weekend, there is also the Summer Classic music festival at Ascension Vineyard, which will bring plenty more people to Matakana. The festival will be on Saturday February 6th, starting at 4:00 p.m. and ending at 11:00 p.m. so we suggest avoiding travelling between Matakana and Warkworth around these times.

Northbound traffic on State Highway 1 on Friday is predicted be busiest between Puhoi and Wellsford from 2.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. This stretch will probably also be busy on Saturday between 11.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. Plan your weekend around these times if possible, as you don't want precious holiday time eaten up sitting in a hot car.

NZTA have an interactive holiday journeys map. They are encouraging motorists to use this in the hope it will ease congestion and minimise traffic over the long weekend.

Whether you're a local or you’re heading to the area to celebrate the sunshine for the long weekend, be aware that trips may take a little longer than usual, so be patient on the roads and drive safely.