Police were warning motorists to consider alternative routes as traffic builds in the area of Great South Road between Atkinson Avenue and Albion Road causing delays in Ōtahuhu.
The congestion on Atkinson Road was extending through to Sylvia Park.
“Police are working to manage the congestion however motorists are asked to avoid the area if possible,” it said this afternoon.
Meanwhile, Ōtahuhu, which the roads run through, was flooded by chants and Tongan flags after the Mate Ma’a Tonga arrived in Auckland this morning after thrashing the Scotland Bravehearts in Cairns 50-4 during its opening World Cup campaign on Sunday.
According to reports up to 2000 fans were at the Auckland International Airport to welcome the national team.
It was a festive atmosphere including a junior Tonga team performing the Sipitau, in which the senior side responded, 1News reported.
Tonga are outside favourites to claim the trophy following the inclusion of NRL stars such as Jason Taumalolo and Andrew Fifita in their squad, NZ Herald reported.
Tongan fans also had another chance to mingle with the squad this afternoon during a signing session at the Otahuhu Rugby League Club in Auckland from 3pm.
