Iwi and small isolated communities are pleading for Easter holidaymakers to stay away

A Whangamata Z petrol station worker says traffic is slow during the day, but locals believe people are sneaking into town overnight.

She says the town has become very busy in the last few days, with long lines at the only supermarket.

Ngati Rangi in Ohakune is urging outsiders not to come into the Ruapehu area over Easter.

Te Kahui o Paerangi chair, Whetu Moataane, says if outsiders come they'll be putting pressure on the health system and food supply chain.

He says people need to stay at home.