Hone Heke / Cobham roundabout

Kerikeri is growing fast, and with growth comes traffic congestion. The Hone Heke / Cobham intersection is becoming more and more difficult to navigate for motorists and the thousands of children attending the nearby primary and high school. ViaStrada came up with a roundabout option that improves safety and access for everyone. 

In June 2021, ViaStrada reviewed the network traffic model reports and confirmed the suitability of a roundabout. We developed concept designs for two options to fit the available public space.

In this follow-up project, we gathered background data such as reported crashes and multi-modal volumes of intersection users. We subcontracted the traffic count and engineering survey services to streamline project delivery for our client. 

ViaStrada are SIDRA Intersection micro-simulation modelling experts, and we ran base and future year models to show how both options provide an improved level of service for drivers compared to the current situation. Based on a multi-criteria analysis of safety, cost, and accessibility, we recommended a fully mountable solution.

Fieldwork included doorknocking with the council project manager to discuss the issues and opportunities with adjacent business owners. We also incorporated community views on the project using an innovative webmap survey tool and a public drop-in session. 

A particular challenge is the presence of six commercial driveways at the head of the T-intersection. We developed a design that maintained truck access to all of these while still providing new and safer pedestrian crossings. As a value-add, we sketched a concept to rationalise these six driveways down to four – potentially improving safety and accessibility for everyone. 

Our design was also featured in the Kerikeri Transport Choices project, read more here.