Traffic build-up in some areas as Easter holidays end

Traffic in some parts of the South Island is grinding to a halt, with traffic building up on State Highway 1, south of Christchurch.

SH1 TIMARU, SOUTH CANTERBURY, NORTHBOUND - CONGESTION - 12:45PM

There is significant northbound congestion before Timaru. Please expect delays when travelling in the area. ^RS pic.twitter.com/4LoiCW2YTF

— NZTA Canterbury/WC (@NZTACWC) April 2, 2018

Traffic is especially heavy around Ashburton and Timaru, as Easter holiday-makers, and those attending the Ed Sheeran concerts in Dunedin, make their way north.

In the lower North Island, traffic is building up north of Ōtaki.

Traffic is also slowing down in the northbound lane of the Auckland Southern Motorway.

The Transport Agency said motorists needed to be patient and allow extra time for the journeys.