The developer behind a mixed-use development, on almost six hectares of land at the base of Mt Iron and bordered by state highways 6 and 84, says he is thrilled that Waka Kotahi has announced the construction of a new roundabout at Mt Iron Junction (Vet Corner).

Mt Iron Junction Ltd, owned by Steve Schikker and Peter Green, has consent to build a service station, a nine-unit workers’ accommodation village and 13 two-and three-bedroomed terrace houses subject to the roundabout being operational.

“We are obviously thrilled that Waka Kotahi have announced the impending construction,” Steve said.

“This will allow the consented development to progress with a full service energy centre being the first project to commence construction.”

An artist’s impression of plans for the Mt Iron Junction subdivision. IMAGE: Supplied

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is building the roundabout which it says will reduce the likelihood of crashes at the busy intersection.

“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 Wānaka,” Waka Kotahi director of regional relationships James Caygill said.

“Wānaka will continue to grow, and we anticipate a significant increase in traffic in conjunction with that.”

Reaction to the announcement has generally been positive with Active Transport Wānaka spokesperson Simon Telfer saying they pushed hard during the design phase for the safety of people walking and biking through the intersection. 

“This is reflected in the crossing points and off road links,” he said. 

An artist's impression of the new roundabout design IMAGE: Supplied 

“However the biggest determinant of safety is the speed of vehicles entering the roundabout. Unfortunately we were unable to get Waka Kotahi to consider reducing this from 80kmph.”

Councillor Niamh Shaw shared Simon’s concern regarding the speed but said the design was a “vast improvement on the current intersection”.

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.

The scene at the intersection after a two-car crash on September 15. PHOTO: Wānaka App

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],” he said.

Once constructed the roundabout will be similar in size to the one entering Three Parks near the BP service station with median islands on the approaches to reduce speed, crossing connections for people walking and biking, and new street lighting and landscaping.