WUI: Kensington to Manse Street
Safety Improvements
As part of the Whangarei Urban Improvements (WUI) the NZ Transport Agency wanted improvements to the Kensington Avenue intersection and the state highway south to Manse Street reducing traffic queuing at peak times and improving safety for road users and pedestrians accessing Kensington Park.
Dedicated Northbound Lane with Offset Roundabout
The new roundabout at the Kensington Avenue intersection includes a dedicated northbound lane on SH1, allowing vehicles to continue without stopping. This design improves traffic flow and reduces road noise from heavy vehicles stopping on the hill before the intersection. The project also features complex structural walls, reaching up to 8m in height. Adjoining the project is a large sports complex with parking enhancements included, this was a much needed and substantial upgrade to the area.
Implementing Safety Measures
A raised solid central median installed along the state highway between Kensington Avenue and Manse Street helps address the existing high crash rate, which has resulted in a number of fatalities. The raised median between Kensington Avenue and Russell Road restricts traffic from Kohatu Road to left turn only.
The new raised median between Russell Road and Manse Street is a solid barrier restricting traffic at Manse Street to left turn access only.
LOCATION: SH1 / Kensington, Whangarei
CLIENT: NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi)
CONSULTANT: NCC Consulting Engineers
CONTRACTOR: Fulton Hogan Ltd.
KEY SERVICES:
Team Lead Delivery (ECI)
Planning
Design-Build Contract
Geotechnical Design
Structural Design
Utility Design
Pavement Design
Road & Infrastructure Design
Stormwater Design
Landscaping
Site Supervision
MSQA
Communications & Engagement