Easter Weekend, School Holidays and End of Daylight Savings - Make the most of it - safely!

Daylight Saving Ends and Easter Travel: Timely Road Safety Reminder for Wairarapa Drivers

As daylight saving ends this weekend and Easter travel approaches, the Wairarapa Road Safety Council is reminding motorists to prepare for changing driving conditions and increased holiday traffic.

Wairarapa Road Safety Council Projects Coordinator Holly Hullena says the change in light conditions is a timely prompt for drivers to check both their vehicles and their driving habits.

“Shorter days mean more travel in low-light conditions, and we also see an increase in sun strike during morning commutes. A quick vehicle check and planning ahead can make a real difference to safety over this period,” says Hullena.

Drivers are encouraged to:

• Check lights, wipers, tyres and washer fluid
• Ensure windscreens are clean inside and out to reduce glare
• Keep sunglasses handy for morning sun strike
• Allow extra following distance in reduced visibility
• Slow down and drive to the conditions

Motorists are also encouraged to check the safety rating and fuel efficiency of their vehicle at Rightcar(www.rightcar.govt.nz).

“Choosing a safer, more fuel-efficient vehicle, maintaining correct tyre pressure, and driving smoothly all help reduce crash risk and save fuel — which is especially helpful when travelling longer distances over Easter,” Hullena says.

Easter holiday travel reminder

Easter is traditionally a high-risk period on New Zealand roads due to increased traffic volumes and long-distance travel. Recent Easter road toll figures highlight the importance of safe choices:

• 2025: 4 deaths
• 2024: 7 deaths (highest since 2021)
• 2023: 1 death (lowest since 2012)
• 2022: 3 deaths
• 2021: 7 deaths

The official holiday reporting period runs from 4pm Thursday to 6am Tuesday.

“While it’s encouraging to see last year’s number lower than 2024, any death is one too many. Easter often combines heavy traffic with fatigue, impatience, and poor choices. Planning ahead and taking breaks helps everyone get to their destination safely,” Hullena says.

Wairarapa drivers heading away for the long weekend are encouraged to check travel times using the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi journey planner before leaving.

“Checking your route before you go can help avoid congestion and reduce stress behind the wheel. A smoother trip is also a more fuel-efficient trip.”

Fuel-efficient and safe driving tips for Easter travel

• Drive smoothly — avoid harsh braking and acceleration
• Keep to safe, consistent speeds
• Check tyre pressure before long trips
• Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle
• Use cruise control where appropriate
• Plan breaks to reduce fatigue
• Allow extra time and avoid rushing

“Driving to the conditions, allowing extra time, and looking out for each other are simple steps that make a big difference. Whether you're travelling locally or heading away, arrive safely this Easter,” says Hullena.