Mount Iron intersection improvements, Wanaka

A roundabout to reduce the likelihood of crashes at a busy intersection is on the way for Wanaka.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is building the roundabout at the SH6/SH84 intersection, at Mount Iron.

It will improve safety for  all road users, including pedestrians and people on bikes, says Waka Kotahi Director of Regional Relationships, James Caygill.

“This project is part of our Road to Zero Safe Infrastructure Programme which is being delivered across New Zealand.”

Data between 2011 and 2020 shows one person was seriously injured at the intersection, 18 were left with minor injuries and there were 21 crashes which resulted in no significant injuries.

“Wanaka will continue to grow, and we anticipate a significant increase in traffic in conjunction with that.  Waka Kotahi sees this as a crucial safety project which will reduce the likelihood of serious crashes and deaths for local people and visitors to Wanaka,” Mr Caygill says.

Principal Project Manager Brendon French expects construction to commence early in 2023.

“Design for the roundabout is complete, consenting applications are underway and we plan to go out for tender this week (end of September).”  

Key features

• A 40 metre-diameter, single-lane roundabout (similar in size to the Three Parks roundabout, Tim Wallis Drive).
• Improved and safer traffic flows through the intersection.
• Safer connections to the highway and local road networks.
• Median islands on the approaches to encourage reduced speeds.
• Safer crossing connections for people walking and biking.
• Reduced likelihood of serious crashes causing injury.
• Deliver project benefits within the 22/23 financial year.
• Future proof the design with a fifth roundabout leg to proposed development.
• Improved stormwater system.
• Improved street lighting and new landscaping plans.

The existing T-intersection with Mt Iron behind

Safety improvement on the way: an artist’s impression of the new Wanaka/Mt Iron intersection roundabout from above