New landmark takes shape at Springs Flat Roundabout
Published on 12 October 2026
A striking new cultural landmark is beginning to emerge at the heart of the Springs Flat Roundabout, with the approved central island design set to become a defining feature of one of Whangārei's most significant growth projects.
Springs Flat Roundabout project
Developed in partnership with Ngāti Kahu o Torongare, the central island design draws inspiration from a kahu (cloak), incorporating woven elements. Native planting and landscape treatments will complement the artwork, creating a gateway that reflects the cultural and environmental history of the area.
The design has been developed through ongoing collaboration between Council, project partners and Ngāti Kahu o Torongare, with the hapū contributing to both the design process and cultural monitoring throughout construction.
As work on the central island moves forward, construction of the wider roundabout project continues to make strong progress. Recent months have seen significant advances across the site, including road construction, shared path connections, and the completion of key infrastructure works.
A major construction 'super weekend' from 15 to 20 October 2026 will mark the next significant milestone for the project, helping accelerate progress toward completion later this year.
Infrastructure Committee Chair Brad Flower said the project represents far more than a new intersection.
"The Springs Flat Roundabout is one of the clearest examples of how we're planning for the future growth of our District.
"This project is opening up opportunities for future housing, business development and improved transport connections. It's about making sure we have the right infrastructure in place as our District continues to grow, while creating safer, more efficient connections for everyone who travels through the area.
"People can now clearly see the roundabout taking shape. Every milestone we reach brings us closer to delivering better connections into Te Kamo and one of our District's key growth areas."
Ngāti Kahu o Torongare representative Chantez Connor-Kingi said the project has been shaped by meaningful engagement and partnership throughout its development.
"From the beginning, it was important for us that the cultural significance of this area was recognised and respected throughout the project.
"Our hapū has worked alongside the project team during planning and construction, contributing to the design of the central island feature and providing cultural monitoring throughout the works. That involvement helps ensure our cultural values, history and connection to this whenua are reflected in the finished project.
"The kahu design was chosen because it represents protection, identity and connection. The design came through kōrero at hapū hui and was created by Hope Puriri, whose architectural talents have helped bring other designs within our rohe to life and continue the recognition of Ngāti Kahu o Torongare.
"The Urbanist, the consultants working with Whangarei District Council, have also worked alongside hapū to help finalise the design and planting approach. Together, these elements create a strong sense of place that acknowledges the stories of this area and the people with long-standing connections to it.
"It's rewarding to see those cultural elements now moving from concept into reality."
Following the October construction programme, crews will continue progressing the remaining roadworks, shared path connections, landscaping and installation of the central cultural feature.
The Springs Flat Roundabout project is supported by Central Government funding of $10.3 million through the Infrastructure Acceleration Fund, managed by National Infrastructure Funding and Financing (NIFF), helping Council progress infrastructure that supports safer transport connections and future growth in the area.
Super weekend traffic changes
7:00pm on Thursday 15 October to 5:00am on Tuesday 20 October 2026
A major construction programme will take place over five days to carry out service work and island construction that will help keep the Springs Flat Roundabout project moving forward.
- Northbound traffic will be detoured via Springs Flat Road and Great North Road before rejoining State Highway 1.
- Southbound traffic will continue on State Highway 1 through the construction area in a single managed lane.
- Temporary traffic management will be in place throughout the construction period.
- Allow extra travel time and follow all signage and directions from traffic management staff.
- Normal traffic movements are expected to resume from 6:00am on Tuesday 20 October.
Council and Fulton Hogan thank the community for its patience and support while this important stage of the project is completed.