A sparse and weedy roundabout at the entrance to Wānaka is causing frustration for both community members and elected members.

The Mt Iron Junction roundabout, which is managed by the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), is planted with some shrubs but these are largely outnumbered by weeds.

Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Association chair Simon Telfer said the roundabout is “an eyesore” which frustrates him every time he drives through it.

“If it was designed as wild, natural landscaping then so be it, but it's actually been planted in a way that needs upkeep,” he said.

“Contractors completed work at this roundabout just prior to Christmas – including weeding the roundabout and associated plantings in the area,” an NZTA spokesperson told the Wānaka App.

“In general terms though, NZTA is funded for maintenance to ensure the safety of road users, and not for amenity/aesthetic value.”

Simon wondered if residents “should .. take it into our own hands”.

“I'm just concerned about the safety implications of volunteers in an 80kmh zone,” he said.

Simon said Queenstown Lakes District Council will probably end up having to weed the roundabout, “with the cost burden falling on the ratepayer/community”.

A local service group, Aspiring Rotary, has approached NZTA asking if it is allowed to weed the roundabout, but has not yet heard back.

A club member told the Wānaka App members were concerned about the safety risks of undertaking the work in a busy intersection.

Last month in Cromwell a community board member took matters into his own hands following frustration over a weedy roundabout at the entrance to the town (at the intersection of State Highway 6 and SH8B).

The Central App reported in December that Wally Sanford spent days pulling weeds at the roundabout before encouraging others to join him during a weekend. 

“Pulling weeds and grass is hands down a more effective approach than emailing and squabbling over whose job it is,” he said.

PHOTO: Wānaka App