Traffic Planning for Whitianga Waterways: Coastal Residential Development Case Study

Traffic Planning Consultants (TPC) provided traffic engineering and transport planning support for the Whitianga Waterways project — a master-planned coastal development designed around a unique canal network and catering for up to 1,500 new households. This large-scale project focused on ecological sustainability, high-quality urban design, and integrated transport outcomes to support long-term community growth and connectivity.

Summary

Project Overview

Client: Whitianga Waterways
Location: Whitianga, Coromandel Peninsula
Scope: Traffic planning and engineering for a large-scale residential canal development
Challenges: Designing multimodal transport connections, integrating with the local and state highway network, and securing support for state highway realignment

Our Approach

Integrated Streetscape and Access Design
TPC led the transport planning for local road layouts, streetscapes, and active transport infrastructure, including safe and accessible pedestrian and bicycle networks. We ensured the development’s internal transport systems aligned with its coastal character and residential goals.

Intersection and Highway Reconfiguration
A significant aspect of the project involved the re-routing of part of State Highway 25. TPC undertook the full intersection design process and led engagement with NZTA to secure approval for the highway changes.

Economic Assessment and Stakeholder Collaboration
To justify the highway realignment, we conducted a detailed economic analysis demonstrating long-term transport and development benefits. This analysis supported the establishment of a private sector-leveraged funding agreement between the developer and NZTA, ensuring the project’s viability and success.

Key Outcomes

Delivered pedestrian, cycle, and vehicle access strategies for a sustainable residential community
Achieved approval for re-routing of SH25 through robust technical and economic analysis
Developed road and streetscape designs aligned with the coastal environment and urban planning vision
Enabled infrastructure delivery through a private-public funding agreement

Planning a large-scale residential or coastal development?
Traffic Planning Consultants deliver strategic Transportation Planning and Traffic Engineering Investigation and Design services, along with stakeholder engagement and funding support, to enable successful, integrated community outcomes.

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