Police are warning drivers to be patient and for everyone to wear seatbelts as holidaymakers prepare to hit the roads in huge numbers this Labour Weekend.
As thousands of motorists journey across the country for the holiday weekend, police say they will be out in force to make sure people live to enjoy their break - and not become a grim statistic in our alarmingly high road toll.
National Policing Manager Superintendent Steve Greally said police would have a visible and increased presence on roads this weekend.
Drivers also faced a lower speed threshold in place, with no tolerance for speeding.
Greally urged motorists to drive safely this holiday weekend as increased numbers of vehicles converged on the roads.
"The message to all drivers is simple - drive to the conditions, free from impairment and make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained.
"By doing this, you will dramatically reduce your chances of being hurt on the road."
Greally said part of driving to the conditions meant showing courtesy to other drivers on the road.
"It's important that drivers remain patient, courteous and respectful of others using the roads and don't take unnecessary risks with their safety or the safety of others."
He warned drivers to keep below the speed limit to stem the carnage on the country's roads.
The New Zealand road toll stands at 301 - up 56 on the same time last year. Last year three people died over the holiday weekend break.
"The speed limit is not a target and should not be exceeded," said Greally.
"We all know our roads are unique and challenging - the faster we travel, the greater the risk."
The official 2017 Labour Weekend holiday period starts at 4pm tomorrow and ends at 6am on Tuesday.
