Have a Merry Christmas, not a messy one. Drive safe this holiday season.

With the holiday break almost here, NZTA/Waka Kotahi is urging drivers to do the right thing on the roads over Christmas and New Year’s.

Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island / Top of the South, says holidays are about making happy memories.

“We want people to stay safe when they head away for the holidays and enjoy the festive season. Please by patient on the roads and make sure you get to where you’re going safely.”

Mr Owen says too often small mistakes have devastating consequences.

“Driver distraction, fatigue, impatience – they can all lead bad decisions. And remember, it’s not just you that bears the brunt of a mistake. It is also your passengers, other drivers on the road around you, and anyone in the near vicinity.”

“Never drive tired, turn your cellphone off, watch your speed and following distances, and always pass safely,” Mr Owen says.

But most important of all, he says, make sure everyone in the car has their seatbelt on.

“It is the simplest thing to do and, if the worst happens, it can mean the difference between life or death. Please, make it click,” Mr Owen says.

He also recommends drivers take the time to use the NZTA/Waka Kotahi Journey Planner when heading on a holiday road trip.

• Summer holidays 2024 | NZTA Journey Planner(external link) 

“Nothing is worse than being stuck in traffic in a hot car on a warm summer’s day. Our holiday journey planner shows you when and where the peak traffic times will be.”

“If you can, time your trip to avoid these times. Your passengers will very likely thank you for it,” Mr Owen says.

Holiday Journey Planner – Peak congestion times, Kāpiti Coast

And because things can go wrong on road trips, Mr Owen says it is important to do the right thing when the unexpected happens.

“Our staff and contractors continue to monitor the highways and motorways over the break. If something happens, help is always nearby.”

“But there are some  basic things you can do to keep yourself safe. If you break down, try and steer your  care to a safe place off the road. Opening your bonnet and turning on your hazard lights are great ways to show other drivers and emergency services that you need help.“

“Live traffic lanes are dangerous, especially on motorways. Never stand on the road,” Mr Owen says.

Tips for safe driving on your summer holiday

Drive to the conditions, allow plenty of time and take regular breaks to stay alert.

• Be patient when driving this summer so everyone can relax and enjoy the holidays together.
• Keep a safe following distance from vehicles in front so you can stop safely.
• Drive to the conditions – whether it's the weather, the road you're on, the time of day or the volume of traffic on the roads.
• Take regular breaks to stay alert.
• Allow plenty of time. You're on holiday, no need to rush. 
• Driving in the holidays

Vehicle safety

• Your vehicle must be safe to drive before you set off on your summer holiday.
• Check that the Warrant of Fitness or Certificate of Fitness is up to date on any vehicle you plan to drive, including rentals.
• There are basic checks you can do yourself, including:
  • Tyres – minimum tread is 1.5mm but the more tread, the better the grip.
  • Lights – check that all lights work so your vehicle is visible in poor light.
  • Indicators – ensure all indicators work so people know which direction you are moving.
  • Windscreen and wipers – check for wear and tear so you can see the road safely
• Vehicle safety