People attending the Rhythm and Vines music festival at Gisborne over New Year have been given a friendly reminder to take care on the roads.

Police have asked festival-goers to make reliable plans when travelling on their way to or from the event, by arranging a sober driver, booking a taxi or using one of the many bus services available.

Senior Sergeant Ross Smith has pleaded with people to be patient with increased traffic volumes and to organise a sober driver if people are drinking.

He says if you're planning to drink at the festival and will not be staying in the campground, you will need to make reliable arrangements on how to get home.

And he warns if people are partying through the night, they will not be in a fit state to drive the following morning and that drivers should expect to be breath tested when they leave the event.

"We want everyone to enjoy their time at the festival but we urge partygoers to look out for themselves and their mates the whole time."

He said police want people to have a good time and to remember their celebrations for the right reasons.

“Drink in moderation and make smart decisions about how you're going to get to and from venues. Look after your friends as well - especially those who might have had too much to drink."

There is a very large liquor ban around the event site this year which police say will be strictly enforced with a $250 infringement fee for breaches.

"We want everyone to enjoy themselves and last the distance so you can make it home."