Those in Hawke's Bay getting set for an extra long weekend are being urged by police to keep their wits about them when driving.

Labour Weekend is a busy one in the bay, with it also coinciding with Hawke's Bay Anniversary day yesterday.

One person was killed on the roads last Labour Weekend, however 20 people suffered serious injuries in 83 reported crashes.

Eastern Road Policing Manager Inspector Matt Broderick says even non-fatal crashes can be life-changing.

"Serious injury crashes we tend to look at as a success, but it's not a success for the families involved. It involves long periods of rehabilitation and if they ever get their life back to normal that's a bonus."