State Highway 25 between Whitianga and Kuaotunu has now reopened to two-way traffic following repair of a major slip on the road.

Chipseal resurfacing of the repair site took place on Saturday morning.

'Sealing aftercare traffic management including a 50km per hour temporary speed limit is currently in place,” says a NZ Transport Agency spokesperson.

'Road users are advised to adhere to speed restrictions to ensure road safety and protection.

'Thank you for your patience during this time.”

Key routes around the Waikato and Bay of Plenty network are predicted to be busy from Friday December 20 as holidaymakers head away for the Christmas and New Year's break.

In Waikato, heavy congestion is predicted eastbound on SH2 Maramarua for most of Friday, Saturday and Sunday December 20 -22 as holidaymakers head to the Thames-Coromandel district for the Christmas break.

Further south – traffic is expected to be heavy on SH1 in Taupiri and again on SH1 in Karapiro leading up to Christmas.

Road users in the Bay of Plenty area should be prepared for heavy traffic eastbound on SH2 between Tauranga and Katikati leading up to the New Year period as festival-goers head to the Mount for the Bay Dreams concert.

Check NZTA's holiday journeys map: www.nzta.govt.nz/holidayjourneys for other dates and times of where traffic is likely to be heavy based on last year's travel patterns.

Remember to take plenty of food and water on your journey. Stay hydrated and take regular breaks so you can get to your holiday destination safely.

When planning your journey, remember to check the NZTA traffic map https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/traffic