Drivers in the Lower North Island are warned to be ready for road closures and travel delays this Saturday as Anzac Day commemorations are held around the region.

Holiday driving

With Monday also a public holiday extra traffic can be expected on the roads as people make the most of a long weekend. 

Congestion and delays can be expected on State Highway 1 at Peka Peka and Ohau from Friday through to Monday. People are encouraged to use the NZTA/Waka Kotahi Holiday Journey Planner so they can avoid peak travel times and expected congestion. More information, including peak traffic periods can be found here:

Anzac Day weekend 2026 | NZTA Journey Planner(external link)

While drivers always need to take care on the roads, holiday weekends and increased traffic mean road users should make sure they are completely prepared.

This means overtaking safely, not speeding, never driving while tired, avoiding driver distraction (ie cellphones/devices), and ensuring everyone is wearing a seatbelt. These simple steps can and do save lives.

Driving in the holidays(external link)

Anzac Day commemorations

With Anzac Commemorations being held in towns across the region on Saturday, state highway and local road closures are planned. Drivers should factor this into their travel plans and be prepared for delays while events are underway.

• Saturday 25 April 4:30am – 8:30am
  • SH2 Masterton, Chapel Street will be OPEN
  • Adjacent local road closures planned for parade – Dixon Street, Queen Street, and Jackson Street
     
• Saturday 25 April 10:30am – 1:30pm
  • SH2 Carterton, between the intersections with Park Road and Pembroke Street
  • SH2 CLOSED in both directions. Local road detours available
     
• Saturday 25 April 9:30am – midday
  • SH2 Greytown, between Hastwell Street and Kuratawhiti Street
  • SH2 CLOSED in both directions. Local road detours available
     
• Saturday 25 April 9:20am – 10:10am
  • SH2 Featherston, Birdwood Street and Fox Street
  • Rolling blocks on SH2 between 9:20am – 9:25am and 10:05am – 10:10am for parade
  • Local road closures for Birdwood Street and Fox Street.