The NZ Transport Agency will test a new initiative in Otaki this long weekend in an attempt to reduce congestion on State Highway 1.

On Monday, Labour Day, NZTA will close Mill Rd to traffic heading east through the roundabout, and limit highway access to and from Arthur St, allowing a steadier trip home for southbound drivers.

Operations manager for Wellington, Mark Owen, said the measures, along with the closure of passing lanes near Forest Lakes, should ease congestion on the roads.

"We appreciate that people don't like being held up when they simply want to get home after a relaxing time away," he said.

"By reducing the conflict between highway travellers and people making local trips, we hope to improve everyone's journeys."

Mr Owen says the restrictions will only be put in place once returning traffic starts to build and delays become evident.

Staff will be monitoring the road on Monday and will first close Mill Rd to eastern traffic and then Arthur St if delays persist.

The peak time for holiday traffic is likely to happen between 2pm and 5pm on Monday and motorists are advised to plan ahead and if possible avoid travelling through Otaki at that time.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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