The NZ Transport Agency is encouraging people to plan their anniversary weekend journeys ahead to reduce the chance of road accidents.

The NZ Transport Agency, police, ACC and the Ministry of Transport are reminding drivers to ensure they are well rested and prepared before venturing out onto the open road this holiday.

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NZTA regional manager access and use David Pearks says 2010 saw the Bay of Plenty region's road toll increase by 30 per cent compared with the average of the previous five years.

'Every fatality and every serious injury on the region's roads is a tragedy which devastates a family and a community.

'With more rain forecast this weekend for the Bay of Plenty, we urge people to drive to the conditions and do their part to keep themselves, their passengers and other road users safe.”

Provisional statistics for 2010 show there were 39 confirmed fatalities on Bay of Plenty roads last year, up from 28 in 2009 and 29 in 2008. The previous highest figure was 36, in 2006.

NZTA tips for keeping safe:

1) Plan ahead

It will take the stress out of your journey and can make the trip an enjoyable part of the holiday.

Plan to have enough rest beforehand and plan to share the driving to stay fresh and avoid the risks of fatigue. Allow enough time to get to your destination safely.

Schedule in breaks on your trip, and sort out entertainment and refreshments to keep the kids occupied.

Think about the route you'll take - how safe are the roads you are planning to travel on? Will you be travelling on unfamiliar roads? Be aware that different parts of our roads provide different levels of safety. Roadside hazards like trees, ditches, poles and narrow shoulders can increase risk. Intersections can be dangerous, so can busy roads without a median barrier. Armed with that knowledge people can adjust their driving to the conditions and take extra care on higher risk roads.

2) Check your car before leaving

A safe and well maintained car can stop you having a crash or protect you if there is one. Don't just hop in the car and go, it only takes a few minutes to check your tyre treads and pressure, and it could save your life.

Also remember to check your oil, water and lights. Most garages offer safety checks for tyre tread and pressure, lights, brakes, cooling systems and other components. A well tuned vehicle is also more fuel efficient so you'll also save money on fuel costs.

We tend to cram a lot of gear in for the holidays, but loose items can be dangers to people in the car. Make sure everything is safely packed away. If you're going to be towing make sure all the couplings are compatible. Also, remember to check the safety chain, trailer lights, tyres and brakes.

3) Drive to the conditions

Every road is different and every journey is different. Remember the ‘conditions' mean more than just the weather. They also include the state of the road, the traffic conditions, your vehicle, your load, and you - are you stressed or tired? Take a break.

4) If you're going to drink, plan a safe way home

You need to be sober to control your vehicle properly and be aware of what's going on around you. Plan ahead and know how you're getting home before you go out drinking - have a sober driver, use public transport, take a taxi or walk if it's safe and practical.

5) Expect the unexpected

Over the holidays the road environment can be more unpredictable. There could be a queue, a bike or even a horse around the corner.