Police are urging motorists to take extra care as thousands head south for the Burt Munro Challenge next week

The motorcycle event runs from Wednesday to Sunday near Invercargill, attracting enthusiasts from around New Zealand and overseas.

Southland Area Police Commander Mike Bowman says motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable, with less protection than those in a car.

He says with Waitangi Day and Lunar New Year celebrations also this month, motorists can expect a visible police presence.

Bowman says the public should be aware they could see police road patrols at any time, anywhere.