Image showing the WDC's failed attempt to control traffic on Birchwood Lane earlier this year.
An independent traffic survey led by the Tamahere Traffic Feedback Team has captured the views of nearly 300 residents, offering a candid snapshot of how locals feel about road safety, speed limits, and pedestrian access across our fast-growing community.
The Tamahere Community Traffic Survey was created by the people, for the people, and the results paint a clear picture: while safety matters, many feel current measures miss the mark.
Birchwood Lane in the Spotlight
Perhaps the clearest message came in response to traffic calming on Birchwood Lane. Just 7.8% of respondents support the existing measures (the final one has now been removed by Council), while a resounding 68% oppose any alternative traffic calming altogether. The sentiment from residents? Birchwood is not seen as a high-risk zone for vulnerable users, and many expressed frustration over perceived overreach and the expense of ineffective trials.
Strong Support for Pedestrian Crossings
When it comes to pedestrian safety, the community was more aligned. An overwhelming 82.2% of respondents support converting the raised island on Wiremu Tamihana Drive into a proper pedestrian crossing. Similar support was seen for crossings on Devine Road (68%) and Birchwood Lane near Devine Road (70.5%). Ideas for the Violet McKenzie walkway were more mixed, with 21% supporting a full crossing and another 24% preferring a simpler island refuge.
Speed Limit Feedback
Speed limit preferences indicate a call for sensible alignment with how the roads are actually used:
On Birchwood Lane, 62% support increasing the speed limit to 60–70 km/h.
On Alfred Main Drive, 79% favour lifting it to between 60–80 km/h, with most preferring 60 km/h.
Newell Road Division
Residents were more divided over Newell Road’s northern end:
18% want full in-and-out access restored.
34.5% support a left-turn-only reopening.
38% would prefer to keep it closed.
Common Themes and Suggestions
Many residents took the time to leave written comments. Common suggestions included:
Banning heavy vehicles on Birchwood Lane
Installing speed cameras or cushions
Improving visibility at key intersections
Addressing deteriorating road edges and planting
Reviewing the layout at the Wiremu Tamihana–Airport Road intersection
Several also criticised the recent traffic calming trials as ineffective and expensive, calling for more community consultation in future planning.
What Happens Next?
The survey results, alongside all community comments, will now be presented to Council. While this independent survey isn’t a substitute for the upcoming formal Council consultation, it provides a timely, grassroots-level snapshot of what residents actually want.
The Tamahere Traffic Feedback Team remains committed to improving safety for all, especially our most vulnerable users, while ensuring that changes reflect the actual needs and lived experiences of locals.
The survey organisers would like to thank everyone who took part.
To share further feedback, contact tamahere.traffic.calming@gmail.com.
