Motorists are being urged to allow extra travel time as more than 14,500 athletes and thousands of supporters descend on Tauranga for the 2026 Zespri Aims Games.

The tournament runs from September 5 to 11, with events across Tauranga, Ōmokoroa, Mount Maunganui, Pāpāmoa and Te Puke.

Roads around the main venues are expected to be busier than usual, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times and event start and finish times.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Bay of Plenty journey manager Matt Gajzago said people should plan for longer journey times.

“It’s going to be a busy and exciting week across the city, so the best thing people can do is plan ahead before they leave.”

Motorists are encouraged to check journey updates before travelling, follow traffic management around venues and allow extra time for trips.

To help manage congestion, free transport services will be available throughout the week.

Tauranga City Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council are providing free bus services to make travel around Tauranga easier.

The service for the opening ceremony will operate between Blake Park, Gordon Spratt Reserve and Mercury Baypark Arena.

A free Aims Games Loop Bus service will also run every 30 minutes from September 7 to 11.

It will connect venues including Gordon Spratt Reserve, Mercury Baypark, Baywave, Blake Park, Mount Mainstreet and Pilot Bay.

Athletes, coaches and referees can travel free on Tauranga’s Baybus urban network during the tournament.

NZTA said planned roadworks on state highways around the city will be managed carefully where possible to minimise disruption during the games.

Some works would continue, including those that could not be safely or practically paused.

People attending events are asked to allow extra time, use the free bus services where possible, follow temporary speed limits and take extra care around busy venues and pedestrian crossings.