Aucklanders are being urged to plan their travel ahead of the busy Black Friday shopping period, with Auckland Transport (AT) and NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) working together to manage expected traffic surges.

The Auckland Transport Operations Centre (ATOC) has partnered with mall operators to develop strategies for managing carparks and traffic flow around major shopping areas.

Active monitoring will be in place to ensure smoother journeys during one of the busiest times of the year.

Simon Buxton, AT’s Director of Customer and Network Performance, noted the challenges ahead.

“Our Operations Centre is doing everything they can to help keep traffic flowing around shopping centres this festive season, though we’re also encouraging shoppers to make the most of all the transport choices that are available to them,” he said.

Auckland’s major shopping hubs are accessible via AT’s frequent transport network, with buses and trains running every 15 minutes between 7 am and 7 pm daily.

Mr Buxton encouraged Aucklanders to consider public transport, walking, or cycling to avoid the stress of parking.

“Contactless payment options like debit cards, smartphones, and smartwatches make it easier than ever to hop on a bus or train,” he added.

For those driving, NZTA Regional Manager Maintenance and Operations Jacqui Hori-Hoult advised checking traffic conditions before heading out.

“Prepare for delays, especially around shopping outlets in Westgate, Newmarket, Mt Wellington, and the airport,” she said.

Congested areas may include motorway ramps such as SH16 Westgate, SH1 Gillies Ave, and SH20A Airport.

The NZTA Journey Planner tool and AT Mobile App offer real-time traffic updates to assist with trip planning.

“We’d encourage shoppers to check traffic conditions and, if necessary, stay a little longer to enjoy dining or entertainment rather than joining the congestion,” Mr Buxton said.

Black Friday in New Zealand falls on Friday, November 29, 2024, as it is observed on the day after the American Thanksgiving holiday, which is the fourth Thursday of November.