Civil Defence says it plans to reduce congestion on Christchurch streets in coming weeks.
National controller John Hamilton says several routes are causing problems for drivers.
He says traffic problems since last month's earthquake have mostly been caused by the central city being closed, restricting travel across town.
Mr Hamilton says 10 strategic routes have been identified as priority areas but would not say what the plan was.
He asks that drivers are patient and use public transport or cycle where possible.
