Advice for holiday-makers heading out of Auckland

Highways both north and south of Auckland are backing up - and delays are expected all weekend.

The closure of State Highway two through Ngatea is causing congestion - Warkworth and the motorway toward Takanini are just as bad.

AA Spokesperson Barney Irvine says adjusting travel time will save motorists a lot of pain.

He says it's important to plan your trip in advance, check the traffic and road conditions before you leave - and drive courteously.