FAQs

Multiple stakeholders have been engaged to fully understand the issues, opportunities and constraints associated with providing a solution to the Hill Street intersection. Key stakeholders include representatives from across AT, Waka Kotahi, Auckland Council and Mana Whenua, as well as a Community Advisory Group (CAG), the Rodney Local Board, and a representative group of the One Mahurangi Transport and Infrastructure Forum. 

Iwi groups have been involved at key stages of the project development including key stakeholder workshops and sessions, and at the AT & Mana Whenua Northern Transport Hui. They include, Ngāti Manuhiri, Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Whanaunga, Te Kawerau a Maki, Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua, Ngāti Wai, Ngāti Paoa, Ngāti Whatua o Kaipara, Ngāi Tai ki Tamaki and Te Patukirikiri. Targeted engagement with Ngati Manuhiri was carried out at the close of the business case.

Early design concepts assessed against specific criteria considered impacts on the environment, access to key locations, congestion, and the ability to provide safe access for active modes. The options that had a significant environmental impact on Kōwhai Park and Shoesmith Domain were discounted along with those considered out of context or not aligning with future plans for Warkworth. 

It is estimated that by 2050 will be another 7,300 homes built in future growth areas in Warkworth, and a population increase from 5,000 to around 25,00 Increased traffic movements, including public transport, and active transport modes, such as cycling and walking, will place more pressure on this key intersection which is also a main access point to Warkworth’s expanding retail area. 

The initial reduction in traffic flows through the Hill Street intersection following completion of Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth and Te Honohono ki Tai (Matakana Link Road) is expected to be replaced by local traffic over time. However, more travel choices will become available through improvements in public transport, walking and cycling and new or improved transport links. 

The RLTP 2021-2031 earmarks $18.8 million worth of future funding for Hill Street Intersection Improvements. Construction funding will be confirmed in mid-2024 once the detailed design is completed.