Northland businesses are concerned checkpoints and negative publicity could deter needed visitors

When Auckland's borders on Wednesday, police and Tai Tokerau Border Control will be checking motorists heading to the region.

Kaitaia Business Association chairwoman Andrea Panther says local businesses are distressed about the checkpoints.

She says people are taking the safe option to go south rather than north and it will affect not just tourism, accommodation and hospitality but also all the extra services people use when travelling.

Far North Mayor John Carter backs the safety first approach but says they need to get the balance right.