The New Zealand Transport Agency is urging motorists heading away for Easter to plan ahead to stay safe and avoid delays on the roads.

The NZTA's travel team has put together maps to show the expected peak holiday traffic times to help drivers decide the best time to travel to avoid the queues.

These maps show the busiest times based on previous years' travel patterns. They are predictions and are subject to change based on the weather, local events and other factors. More details can be found at www.nzta.govt.nz/hotspots.

'Queues and delays can be expected at the most popular times across the state highway network as large numbers of people head off to their usual holiday destinations,” says senior journey manager Neil Walker.

In the Bay of Plenty, heavy traffic is expected on State Highway 29 over the Kaimai Range to Waikato; State Highway 2 between Paeroa and Waihi and State Highway 2 between Tauranga and Katikati.

Heavy traffic through Katikati is expected as drivers head to holiday spots further north.

'People should try to avoid travelling at the busiest periods. Plan your travel in advance to reduce stress and to help to reduce congestion and delays so the journey is safer and more enjoyable,” says Neil.

'When you're actually on the road things can change because of incidents, weather and even driver behaviour so keep up to date by checking our website, calling the 0800 4 HIGHWAYS number or following us on social media.”

During Easter a temporary halt is placed on road works on all state highways unless special permission is granted.