Motorists are urged to take extra care on the roads this Easter, with high volume traffic expected across Central.

Central roads are likely to be particularly busy as Warbirds Over Wānaka returns for the first time in six years.

Its 30th anniversary show in 2018 attracted 54,000 people, with the same or more expected this time round.

Police have confirmed they will be out and about, taking a firm approach to unsafe driving behaviours, which comes on the heels of a “disappointing start” to the year on our roads.

A fatal crash on the Cromwell-Clyde Rd (SH8) on Wednesday, added to that already high toll.

According to the Ministry of Transport Te Manatū Waka there have been 71 deaths on New Zealand roads since January.

Director of road policing Superintendent Steve Greally said we can and must do much better.

It’s about drivers and road users making simple decisions to keep themselves and others safe or they can expect to be ticketed, he said.

“It’s a serious stance we are taking to ensure we don’t see more lives lost on our roads,” he said.

“Those split-second decisions when driving can put a life in the balance. That's why it’s important not to overlook them whenever or wherever you’re travelling.

“It takes a second to either put your seatbelt on, share an Uber home or have a sober driver on hand, decide to leave that text or call alone, and slow down on any road. Any of these will improve the chances of you arriving at your destination safely.”

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has also appealed to the nation to take care this Easter.

Road Safety Manager Fabian Marsh reminds drivers to use NZTA’s Easter Weekend Holiday Journey Planner, which provides travel time information and updates on any delays, roadworks, and road closures. 

He also urged drivers to reduce speed where temporary traffic management was in place.

NZTA journey manager for Otago and Southland Nicole Felts also encourages people to build in extra time when travelling.

She said people should share the driving if possible - and coffee, snack and toilet breaks would help people arrive at their destination refreshed.

Keep up to date with The Central App’s Roads button.