New Year travel warning for Rhythm and Vines revellers
As crowds descend on Rhythm and Vines for the New Year celebrations, authorities are urging revellers to plan ahead and drive with caution. With heavy traffic expected and many visitors unfamiliar with local roads, police say delays are almost guaranteed and accidents are preventable with smart choices behind the wheel.
New Zealand Police and local safety agencies are coordinating with event organizers to remind drivers that the roads will be busy, wet, and often roadworks or temporary detours may be in place. The overarching message is simple: expect delays, travel slowly, and share the road responsibly.
Why the risk is higher on New Year’s Eve
New Year periods typically bring a surge of motorists, pedestrians, and alcohol-influenced drivers. Wet weather can reduce braking efficiency, increase hydroplaning risk, and shorten stopping distances. In Gisborne and surrounding areas, several routes feed into Rhythm and Vines, meaning many drivers are navigating unfamiliar lanes, unfamiliar exits, and festival-based traffic patterns for the first time.
Police say the combination of unfamiliarity, heavy volumes, and wet roads compounds the danger. A few minutes of caution can prevent a multi-vehicle crash, injuries, or worse. Authorities also highlight the importance of planning alternate routes and allowing extra time to reach festival venues and accommodation.
Safety tips for a safer journey to Rhythm and Vines
Plan your route and time
Study the route before you depart and check traffic updates. If possible, use public transport or park-and-ride services offered near event hubs. Allow extra time for possible queues and detours so you’re not rushing in unsafe conditions.
Drive to the conditions
Reduce speed on wet surfaces, increase following distance, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Wet roads can hide standing water and slip conditions; gentle braking and smooth steering are key to staying in control. If you encounter heavy rain, find a safe place to pull over rather than continuing at high speed.
Stay alert and avoid distractions
Limit phone use and keep the focus on the road. Have a sober designated driver or arrange safe alternatives if plans involve alcohol. Remember that fatigue from late nights can impair reaction times, so take breaks if you’re feeling drowsy.
Protect pedestrians and cyclists
Festival areas generate pedestrian-heavy traffic. Drivers should yield to pedestrians at crossings, watch for jaywalkers near venues, and anticipate pedestrians exiting vehicles or crossing from parking areas. Cyclists should also be given space and reminded to use bike lanes where available.
Vehicle readiness
Check tyres, brakes, lights, and wipers before heading out in wet conditions. Ensure your wipers function properly and your headlights are on, improving visibility for you and others on the road. If your vehicle starts to skid, ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction you want to go.
What authorities will monitor over the New Year period
Police and safety partners will implement targeted patrols around festival routes, popular parking areas, and entry/exit points. Random breath testing will be in operation, with a clear message that impaired driving remains a serious risk. Roadside assistance services will be on standby to help stranded motorists and clear any incidents quickly to reduce congestion.
Bottom line for Rhythm and Vines travellers
Delays are likely, but they’re avoidable. By planning ahead, driving to conditions, and keeping pedestrians front of mind, revellers can reduce the risk on wet, busy roads. The New Year’s celebrations are meant to be enjoyed safely, and a careful approach behind the wheel helps everyone start the year with better odds of a safe return home.
