Built by Fulton Hogan on behalf of Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, the work was acknowledged with a blessing of the site by mana whenua representatives and a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Elles Rd and State Highway 1 intersection.
Waka Kotahi project manager Jason Forbes said the 12-month-long transformation replaced one of the most dangerous intersections in the highways across the country.
This was a 100% safety-driven project, he said.
"In New Zealand, it was one of the higher risks ... and the worst blackspot intersection in Southland."
Waka Kotahi director regional relationships James Caygill said, in the last 10 years, 12 people were injured in crashes in this area, three of them seriously.
"With a 50m central diameter it’s the largest highway roundabout in Invercargill and will provide better connections to nearby cycling and walking paths. Cyclists and pedestrians can move through the roundabout safely, separated from traffic at dedicated safe crossing points."
Invercargill Mayor Sir Tim Shadbolt and Invercargill Labour list MP Dr Liz Craig cut the ribbon.
Sir Tim said he was looking forward to seeing drivers, pedestrians and cyclists using the roundabout.
"Between this fine roundabout and the newly opened Invercargill-Bluff cycleway, we are now more connected to Bluff than ever before."
