The first day of advance polls in Halifax resulted in long lines at several polling stations, which has one voter calling for changes to ensure people aren't deterred from casting their ballot.

Halifax resident Penny Doherty has voted in the same polling location in elections for the past 37 years and says Friday was the worst experience she's ever had.

"We're paying millions of dollars to conduct an election, we're trying to get people to vote. And here we are holding up the election process. It's totally unnecessary," she said.

Across Canada, voters reported having their patience tested and in some cities the wait was up to two hours.

For Doherty, the problems started when she arrived and nearly every one of the building's doors was locked.

When she finally got inside, there was a line up of 50 people for one ballot box.

"I'm a very determined voter. I want my vote to count. And to find the door that you were to get in was almost an impossibility?" she said.

Doherty says she arrived to vote around 3 p.m. and it was taking about five minutes per person to vote after waiting and registering.

Unexpected crowds

She says the problems could be alleviated with a few more ballot boxes and additional staff.

"It's just a frustrating waste of time," she said. "Absolutely unacceptable."

The close federal election may have inspired an unexpected number of people to cast their ballots early and long lineups at advance polls have been reported across the country.

Elections Canada says they didn't expect such large crowds on day one.

Officials say the long weekend might have inspired some to cast their ballots early.

A spokesperson says they'll reassign some staff to help in the days to come.

Penny Doherty just hopes the problems haven't spoiled the opinions of some voters, especially first-time voters.

"Many people came and left, they did not vote. And I wonder if they will come back to vote. Is this the way to run our democracy?"

The advance polls are open until Monday.