Police are expecting more traffic gridlock in parts of the country tomorrow.
Motorists were forced to sit in long queues today - with the congestion particularly bad to the north and south of Auckland, and also north of Wellington, as holidaymakers headed out of the main centres.
Police spokesperson Duncan Hall said at this time of year motorists needed to take their time, stay calm while driving, and expect delays.
He said there were expected to be more problems tomorrow with a large number of people on the roads because of the holiday period and the fact that New Year's Day is a week day next week.