Category: Auckland Council

Source: Auckland Council

Imagine flying more than 11,000km non-stop from Alaska to Auckland – it’s no wonder kuaka (bar-tailed godwits) are keen for a snack and some peace and quiet on their arrival in Aotearoa. As the weather cools in the northern hemisphere, kuaka are returning to New Zealand, their home during our spring and summer months. These shy birds can be spotted on tidal mudflats around the country, dining on small marine life and refuelling after their incredible journey.

There are many sites around Auckland where the kuaka settle down after their journey, which is the longest known non-stop flight of any non-seabird.

“You can see kuaka all over New Zealand, but 50 per cent of the population is in Auckland, so you could really say Auckland is godwit central,” says renowned godwit expert Keith Woodley, manager at

Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre and author of In Pursuit of Champions.

Large numbers of kuaka are in Kaipara Harbour and Manukau Harbour. A good place to view them is at Ambury Regional Park. However, they are also found in smaller numbers on popular local beaches such as Snells Beach.

“Snells Beach will regularly have around 300 godwits roosting and foraging during the season,” says Megan Young, Senior Conservation Advisor Auckland Council. “We love how the public is interested in these birds and how the community has embraced them, but if people visit they need to be mindful of not disturbing these precious birds – they’ve earned the rest. Follow the dog rules and keep a respectful distance from the birds.”

Before you see the kuaka in the wild, learn more about this incredible bird with these fun facts.

Over the course of the year, kuaka will make a 30,000km round trip. Their flight from Alaska to Auckland across the Pacific Ocean is approximately 11,000km over eight to nine days.

When they leave our shores in March, they will travel 10,000km to locations around the Yellow Sea coasts of China and Korea for a refuelling pit-stop before embarking on another 7000km journey, making their way back to their breeding grounds in Alaska. “

“To manage their flight, they must effectively start doubling their weight a few weeks before flying, and that extra weight is stored as brown fat, which fuels their journey,” says Keith. “If you were to make a human analogy, it would be like being asked to double your weight in a month and then run a marathon, but these birds are adapted to this.”

Kuaka were a mysterious bird in Māori mythology due to their disappearing act. They were believed to accompany the spirits of the departed and to live in the ancestral homeland Hawaiki.

Kuaka are shorebirds and, unlike seabirds, they cannot land on the water and must fly continuously, flapping their wings.

“It’s powered flight the whole way, but they do use wind as part of their migration strategy, and we can sometimes predict departure dates due to wind patterns. Like cyclists, they prefer a tailwind,” says Keith.

Kuaka are site-loyal, meaning they return to the same spots in New Zealand year after year. Scientists have tracked the behaviour of marked birds, such as one named E7 in 2007, whose behaviour was extensively researched.

“When juvenile birds arrive in New Zealand, they might move around a few times to different locations, but once they find somewhere they like, they will return faithfully to that same spot each year,” says Keith.

If kuaka run into bad weather systems during their flight, they are often blown off course, but many can get back on track using their stellar navigational skills to return to the exact locations. “We know they use the stars and the moon to map out their course, and they also use magnetic fields,” explains Keith.

One of the biggest challenges to kuaka is the loss of habitat and food sources. Development in the Yellow Sea has put the birds under significant pressure, but experts like Keith are working with scientists from around the world to raise awareness about these birds. China has recently had some of its sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. In Aotearoa, kuaka are a protected species and Auckland Council has been contributing to conservation efforts.

Megan suggests that those interested in seeing the birds should visit Ambury Regional Park, which has bird hides designed for watching birdlife, and artificial bird islands where the kuaka roost. Megan says not disturbing roosting (resting) or foraging birds is essential. Areas where the birds roost are monitored by Auckland Council rangers and conservation experts. At places like Snells Beach where the birds share the beach with humans, Megan says following the dog rules is essential.

“It’s also important for people to have an awareness of where the birds are, and if you see shorebirds roosting on the beach or foraging, don’t let your dog chase them,” says Megan. “The birds use up a lot of energy to get away and it’s stressful for them. When they are chased or disturbed frequently on our busy beaches, it’s bad for their health. If you see any shorebirds roosting on the beach or foraging, give them a wide berth or turn back, if you have a dog don’t allow it to chase them.”

Rules have temporarily changed at Snells Beach over the summer to protect the kuaka/bar-tailed godwit from disturbance.

Adds Keith, “It’s particularly important to be mindful of kuaka roosting on a high tide in February and March as those birds are already preparing for their migration. They’re storing reserves of fuel, so unnecessary disturbance at that time can be super critical as they need to conserve energy for their long flight.”

To protect shorebirds such as kuaka and tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterels), temporary changes to Auckland Council’s dog walking rules are in place at the northern end of Snells Beach from 13 September 2024 until 24 March 2025.

During this time, dogs are:

• prohibited from all beach and intertidal areas north of the Sunburst Avenue boat ramp

• on leash at all times on all reserves, north of the Sunburst Avenue boat

To learn more about dog rules at other parks and beaches, visit the Auckland Council website.

Source: Auckland Council

Following recent public consultation, Auckland Council has now finalised a proposal to enhance representation across the region ahead of the 2025 local body elections.

On 26 September, Governing Body members agreed on the changes detailed in a final representation proposal. This came after considering public feedback on an initial proposal consulted on in August and hearings held in September.

It marks the next step in a lengthy process to ensure that Aucklanders in wards and local board electoral areas (subdivisions) are evenly represented through a ratio based on population. It aims to keep ‘communities of interest’ together and align wards with local board boundaries.

Community input has guided the review, with the council’s Joint Governance Working Party (JGWP) leading the work on early engagement, analysing feedback, hearing oral submissions, and recommending the best way forward.

Chair of the JGWP, Councillor Julie Fairey, says she’s pleased to reach an outcome that is shaped by submissions from Aucklanders.   

“This has been a huge piece of work for staff and elected members, and the communities most impacted, and I want to thank them for their mahi.  The submissions and feedback shaped the final proposal significantly, as can be seen in the recommendations for the Rodney subdivisions and keeping Parnell and Newmarket in the Ōrākei ward,” she says.

A total of 2,359 submissions were received during consultation, with 79 percent of those in favour of the changes proposed. These submissions can be viewed online at the representation AK Have Your Say webpage.

Nineteen local boards submitted in writing on the initial proposal, and eight local boards also elected to speak to the JGWP at formal hearings.

The final proposal provides minor changes to local board boundaries. It includes redrawn boundary lines in Rodney and new names for two Rodney subdivisions. There are adjustments to ward boundaries in central Auckland and a new subdivision and two additional board members for the Howick Local Board.

The council now enters a one-month period, once the final proposal has been publicly notified on Thursday 3 October, when objections and appeals can be made, in keeping with the Local Electoral Act 2001.

In early November, any appeals and objections that have been received will be referred to the Local Government Commission (LGC) to make an independent decision.

Aucklanders can expect to hear an outcome on the council’s proposal by April 2025, allowing time for changes to be introduced before next year’s council elections.

Earlier this year, the council explored whether combining a number of local boards could lead to better outcomes, but the Governing Body decided in June that more work is needed on this. Reorganisation will be reconsidered after the 2025 elections.

Meanwhile, the review has identified that more education is needed to improve community understanding of Auckland Council’s complex representation arrangements, the role of the Governing Body, elected members and each of the 21 local board areas. Aucklanders can expect to see new information online ahead of the elections at the council’s Vote Auckland Local Election site.

The final proposal includes these changes to current boundaries:  

Central Auckland wards

The boundaries of the Waitematā and Gulf Ward, Ōrākei Ward, Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Ward and Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Ward will realign with local board boundaries with the exception of:

• Parnell and Newmarket to remain in Ōrākei ward

• St Johns to remain in the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki ward

• Eden Terrace to remain in the Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa Ward

North Shore wards

North Shore/ Albany wards – the boundary between the wards will move to include the Bayview area and align with the proposed local board boundary along Sunset Road.

Minor local board boundary changes

• Upper Harbour / Devonport-Takapuna – all of Saunders Reserve to be in Upper Harbour

• Kaipātiki / Upper Harbour:

  • boundary will run along Sunset Road

  • land near Kereru Reserve to Upper Harbour

  • area near Bayview, north of Glendhu Road

• Kaipātikti Puketāpapa / Maungakiekie-Tāmaki – all of Taumanu Reserve to Maungakiekie-Tāmaki.

Rodney Local Board subdivisions

The boundary between the Northern Rodney and Southern Kaipara subdivisions has changed to include Kaukapakapa in the Southern Kaipara subdivision.

Howick Local Board subdivisions

• Howick, 3 members (no change)

• Pakuranga, 3 members (no change)

• Botany, 2 members (changed area)

• Flat Bush, 3 members (new subdivision).

Variances to the 10% rule  

Decisions made to prioritise communities of interest, resulting in the number of people represented by each elected member in a subdivision area not being within 10 percent of the average for the whole local board area (the ideal population-based ratio):

• Hibiscus and Bays Local Board

• Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board

• Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board

• Franklin Local Board

Minutes for the Governing Body decision are online here.

Source: Auckland Council

Aucklanders are encouraged to have their say on a new policy for development contributions.  The consultation is open from Monday 30 September until Friday 15 November 2024.   

Development contributions are fees the council charges developers to help fund the cost of growth in Tāmaki Makaurau.   

The council uses this money to help pay for new assets that are needed to support the new households or business properties that have been, or will be, developed in Auckland. This includes roads and footpaths, parks; libraries and community facilities; and drainage and stormwater systems.  

Andrew Duncan, Manager of Financial Policy at Auckland Council, notes providing the infrastructure to support expected growth is a key council function.  

“Infrastructure allows new developments to be built and ensures Aucklanders have access to the activities and services they expect.   

“Tāmaki Makaurau is growing at a rapid rate – Auckland’s population is expected to grow by approximately 600,000 people over the next 30 years.  

“Development contributions are a way of ensuring that growth pays for growth and the costs of infrastructure are fairly shared between developers, ratepayers, and funding from the government.”  

Sharing the cost of growth  

Over the 10-year period from 2024 to 2034 the council will be investing around $39.3 billion in its capital investment programme, which includes $10.3 billion of projects with a growth component. It’s also planning to invest $10.9 billion from 2034 to 2054 in the Investment Priority Areas at Drury, the Inner Northwest and the Auckland Housing Programme areas at Tāmaki, Mt Roskill, and Māngere. These areas are joint priority areas with the government and are key locations where the council can focus its limited resources. The development contributions policy makes sure the cost of new infrastructure is fairly shared between developers and ratepayers based on who causes the need for the infrastructure and who benefits from it.  
  
Without this policy, ratepayers would be covering the share of the cost of providing growth-related infrastructure that would otherwise fall to developers.  

What will the policy cover?  

The proposed policy will reflect:  

• the spending and investment decisions over the 10-year period of the Long-term Plan (2024-2034)  

• latest projections for growth in population and interest rates   

• updates to project costs 

• updates to long-term investments in Drury.  

It also proposes to plan for long-term investment in Investment Priority Areas (IPAs) over the next 30 years in a similar way to what the council is already doing for Drury. These are key locations where the council can focus its limited resources. They are all joint priority areas with government, and the additional areas are:  

• inner northwest areas at Red Hills, Westgate and Whenuapai  

• the Auckland Housing Programme (AHP) areas at Tāmaki, Māngere and Mt Roskill.  

Updated investments planned to 2034 and changes to Drury  

These policy changes will increase the average price of contributions from $21,000 to $30,000 per household unit equivalent (HUE), which is the requirement for a typical residential home. This figure includes the capital spend reflected in all 10 years of the long-term plan.  

The council has reviewed the need for stormwater infrastructure in Drury, as well as the level of investment needed here over the next 30 years. As a result, the average price for development contributions in Drury will rise from $70,000 to $83,000.  

Investment in the additional priority areas  

The council has assessed the long-term investment requirements for the inner northwest and Tāmaki, Māngere and Mt Roskill using the best information currently available. The addition of $8.9 billion of investment over 30 years in these areas will raise the average price for development contributions in:  

• the inner northwest from $25k to $98k  

• Māngere from $18k to $29k  

• Mt Roskill from $20k to $52k  

• Tāmaki from $31k to $119k.  

The proposed higher development contributions reflect the value of the infrastructure that will be required to support development and will ensure that developers pay a fair share of these costs.   

The council’s economic analysis shows that higher development contributions do not generally lead to higher house prices. The price of housing is determined by supply and demand for houses rather than the cost of land and building. National and international evidence shows that rather than impacting housing prices, an increase in development contributions could lead to a reduction in the price of undeveloped land over time.

Have your say

You can tell us what you think of the policy on the council’s Have Your Say webpage. You can also join one of our events.   

Join our webinars on:  

Come see us in-person at the Ellen Melville Centre at 2 Freyberg Place, Central Auckland 1010 in:  

• the Marilyn Waring room on Thursday 17 October from 10am – 11.30am   

• the Elizabeth Yates room on Thursday 31 October, from 1pm – 2.30pm  

We want to hear your views. Have your say on the proposed development contributions policy from Monday 30 September until Friday 15 November 2024.   

Source: Auckland Council

The Auckland Future Fund has formally launched as Auckland Council’s new council-controlled organisation and regional fund.

The fund, which is in place to enhance the region’s physical and financial resilience, was formalised by its new Board of Directors on Friday, September 27, through the signing of the trust deed and other founding documents.

 “This is an exciting milestone for the Auckland Future Fund – we now have the fund entity in place and we can continue building the foundations that will contribute to it enhancing Auckland’s physical and financial resilience,” said board chair Christopher Swasbrook.

“This is a long-term initiative and it is early days, but as a board we are looking forward to shaping and influencing the fund which will not only help protect the Auckland region, but also provide long-term capital growth and cash distributions to help fund council services.”

Liaison councillor Christine Fletcher said the fund represents a new direction for Auckland Council that will stand the region in good stead, as an enduring asset for Auckland.

 “The Auckland Future Fund has been a work in progress but it is pleasing to now see it now in place and able to work for all Aucklanders,” says Mrs Fletcher. “I am personally very excited about what the fund represents and its potential to provide not only certainty but also returns for our region.”

The future fund was confirmed in June through the council’s Long-term Plan 2024-2034. It is estimated to provide the council with around an additional $40 million of cash returns per year from 2025/26.

The fund will initially be capitalised with the council’s remaining Auckland International Airport Limited shares.

The Auckland Future Fund will operate under the high-level direction of the council, but through an independent structure.

The Board of Directors – chair Chris Swasbrook, Craig Stobo and David Callanan – were recently appointed to lead the fund, following a robust appointment process that received unanimous support from the Performance and Appointments Committee and the council’s independent advisory board Houkura.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Auckland Future Fund?

The Auckland Future Fund is an investment for current and future Aucklanders and is designed to enhance the Auckland region’s physical and financial resilience.

By diversifying Auckland Council’s major investments, the Auckland Future Fund is part of a financial strategy to better protect and strengthen Auckland in times of need.

How does the fund work?

The fund sees the council moving from one key investment to many, adding diversity by investing across different entities, sectors and locations.

The fund has also been established to deliver revenue to help fund services and reduce reliance on rates. It is estimated it will provide an additional $40 million per year to council, from 2025/2026.

The Auckland Future Fund was introduced as part of Auckland Council’s Long-term Plan 2024-2034. It launched in September 2024. The intent is for the fund to create long-term benefits for the Auckland region and protect the value of intergenerational financial investments.

How is the fund set-up?

As a council-controlled organisation, the Auckland Future Fund operates under the high-level direction of Auckland Council but through an independent structure, where the trustee’s board makes all key decisions.

The board are guided by a clear set of investment objectives and policies set by Auckland Council. Established as a trust, there are strict protections over the fund’s assets. In particular, the protections require the fund to maintain the real value of its capital over the long term. Further protection is also being sought via the introduction of a local bill.

How will the investments work?

The fund will initially be capitalised with the council’s remaining Auckland International Airport shares. The council is assuming average annual returns of 7.24% per annum from the fund over the long term, after management costs. Of the projected return, 5.24% will be returned to the council as an annual cash distribution, with the remainder retained to protect the real value of the fund over time.  The council may decide to transfer other investments into the fund at a later date.

What’s the next step?

Now the Auckland Future Fund is established formally as a trust, the board’s next priority will be looking at how best to diversify the investment in Auckland International Airport to spread the financial risk and to meet its purposes of providing positive returns, and maintaining or growing the fund over the long term.

Source: Auckland Council

The next generation of environmental heroes showcase their artistic talent and eco-awareness at the Auckland Botanic Garden during the school holidays. 

The annual Eye on Nature Creative Arts competition invites tamariki from South and East Auckland to get creative and produce pieces that focus on the 2024 theme of Act Local – What’s in your backyard?

Hosted by the Manurewa-based Beautification Trust, the art makes use of sustainable and re-purposed materials, teaching the artists to care for te taiao (the environment).  

“Aotearoa offers one of the most diverse and unique environments in the world. By learning about the ecosystem around them, we inspire the tamariki and instil pride for our beautiful land,” the trust’s community programmes manager Sterling Ruwhiu says. 

“The tamariki not only explore plants, animals and insects from local gardens and backyards, but also the environmental impact that small actions make on their surroundings.”

Manurewa-Papakura Councillor Angela Dalton says the trust delivers great work across much of the south and east of the city.

“There work is so much more than just getting rid of tagging and graffiti. It’s about creating a generation of young people who will become our leaders, and who will take that love and respect for their environment into the future.”

“I’ve been to previous exhibitions and seen what is produced. The works can make you see our world, and more importantly our own behaviours, differently.

“There is an old saying about words of wisdom coming ‘out of the mouths of babes’, and these works reinforce how a new generation view what is going on in the world they will inherit.”

The free exhibition opens on Saturday and all visitors can vote in a People’s Choice Award, allowing winning kindergartens and schools to earn prizes and art supplies. 

The event is part of the Beautification Trust’s annual Eye on Nature children’s environmental education programme and is sponsored by Auckland Council and the six southern local boards. 

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Source: Auckland Council

Te Kaunihera o Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland Council Group’s Annual Report 2023/2024 released today shows Auckland Council Group performed well over the past financial year, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges from the effects of weather events and some difficult economic conditions.   

The group navigated some big cost impacts, with the high inflation and interest rates that are affecting the daily lives of many Aucklanders also driving higher the cost of delivering council services. 

In the face of this, the group nevertheless invested a record $3.2 billion in assets such as the roads, pipes and buildings used to provide services to Aucklanders, building a stronger and more resilient region.  

This was $487 million more than the previous year and included significant investment in transport and water infrastructure.  

Mayor Wayne Brown notes we steered this pathway while also progressing economic recovery, development for growth, and advancing climate and Māori outcomes.  

“A big positive has been that our costs are under control and we’re back on track getting ourselves in a good position to tackle some of the big physical and financial challenges council has been facing for too long,” Mayor Brown says.  

“Our annual report shows progress in the right direction, including fixing Auckland’s infrastructure, increased transport funding and activities to deliver better, more efficient public transport, building financial and physical resilience of the region following last year’s weather events, providing fairer funding for local boards and getting our finances in better shape for the future.”  

Achieving value for money outcomes for our diverse communities    

The council itself achieved operating savings of $60.2 million compared to the Annual Plan target of $50 million and is actively working to embed the ‘value for money’ ethos into its renewed organisational structure.  

Auckland Council Chief Executive Phil Wilson says the group’s results reflect the diverse range of activities and services supported by the council group for Aucklanders over the past year – often in partnership with iwi, community, central government and the private sector.   

“I am proud of the way the council group has been able to support the region’s recovery from the devastating weather events of 2023, while maintaining services to keep the city running,” says Mr Wilson.   

“I am grateful that so many Aucklanders have supported our recovery efforts – it has been a true testament of the community spirit that exists in Tāmaki Makaurau. While there is more to do, we will continue to prioritise the work that supports both recovery and adaptation to improve Auckland’s resilience.”   

“We also made good progress during the year with the capital investments that will make sure we continue to provide for the services and facilities that our growing city needs.”  

The council’s achievements have included:    

• developing spaces like Takapuna’s Waiwharariki Anzac Square for community activities   

• enlivening the Old Papatoetoe town centre to boost local business and provide new homes   

• introducing new safety initiatives such as dedicated enforcement officers to help improve the feeling of safety in town centres and on our bus routes   

• maintaining our investment in the local programmes, grants and activities that respond to Māori aspirations   

• resurfacing over 400 kilometres of roads across the region   

• working with government agencies to survey 1,360 boat hulls to prevent the spread of marine pests   

• hosting or co-hosting events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, 2024 Weightlifting Festival, Moana Auckland Ocean Festival and the Rainbow Games   

• conducting 11,431 food and alcohol premises inspections   

• diverting more than 20,000 tonnes of food scraps to renewable energy and fertiliser use   

• re-opening community assets, parks and walkways damaged by the weather events.  

Key financials  

Auckland Council Group Chief Financial Officer Ross Tucker says that as well as building new infrastructure, the record capital spend included repairing, upgrading and replacing community assets such as pool and leisure centres, playgrounds and sports facilities.  

Our key areas of investment in assets for Auckland were:  

• $1.4 billion on transport-related assets  

• $1.2 billion on clean water, wastewater and stormwater assets  

• $658 million other assets, such as upgrades to playground and sports facilities, environmental initiatives, renewals of cultural venues and seawall replacements.   

“We use debt to spread the cost of assets over the generations that will benefit from them, and we took on new debt to fund our capital projects,” Mr Tucker says.   

“Even though our total group asset base grew by $1.4 billion to $74 billion, we were able to decrease our overall net debt by $70 million to $12.3 billion.”   

The most significant movement was the reduction in debt of $833 million from the proceeds of the partial sale of Auckland International Airport Limited (AIAL) shares in August 2023. This was mostly offset by new borrowings to fund the capital projects.   

“Our resulting debt-to-revenue ratio of 239 per cent is below the group’s prudential limit of 290 per cent. This means we are in a strong position to keep investing wisely in the assets needed to support Auckland’s growing and diverse communities.”  

Both of our credit rating agencies had our ratings on stable outlooks (S&P Global rating AA, Moody’s Investor Services rating Aa2).  

Revenue for the year was $7.2 billion which was $349 million higher than budget. This was partly driven by an increase in vested assets of $242 million representing the receipt of parks and infrastructure assets from developers. Increased performance for building consents and resource consents together with strong results from inspections, licenses and permits also contributed to the revenue result.   

Revenue from grants and subsidies was $1.3 billion, $86 million higher than budget. This was mainly because of capital grants received in the cost-sharing arrangement with central government for the Risk Category 3 property buy-outs ($67 million) and transport projects ($38 million).  

Operating costs this year were $6.5 billion, which was $940 million above budget. The largest unbudgeted cost was $685 million, related to recognising the full impact of the council’s planned buyout of storm-affected properties and investment in property-level risk mitigation projects.   

The council spent $433 million on repairs and maintenance which included weather event repairs and temporary solutions put in place while permanent solutions could be implemented. The increase in public transport use and the recruitment of bus drivers resulted in an increase to costs, but also an increase in the provision of services.   

To respond to the needs of our communities and to become more adaptable and agile, we had restructures across the group resulting in unbudgeted redundancy costs. During times of change, employees reduce their leave taken, which increased employee costs.  

Mr Tucker says while the annual results are pleasing in the face of the challenges we faced, looking ahead it is vital that we maintain financial flexibility to sustainably support regional growth and address any other unforeseen events.  

– – – – 
 
The link to the Auckland Council 2023/2024 Group Annual Report and Summary Annual Report is here. 

Source: Auckland Council

St Paul Street has been upgraded by the people who use it most – students of AUT.

It’s the first of two semi-permanent street upgrades enabled by Auckland Council, which give design students the chance to influence the renewal of a street in their own neighbourhood.

The redesign of St Paul Street in the city centre’s Learning Quarter, by AUT spatial design students from the Master of Design programme, is now in place.

Last year Claire Davis, Principal – Urban Design from Auckland Council’s Tāmaki Makaurau Design Ope (TMDO), joined creative forces with the Material Imaginaries Research Collective at AUT. The task was for students to collaboratively develop a concept design for a new St Paul Street installation, replacing the existing equipment.

An initial trial helped show how students and staff used the street and what activities needed to be provided for. This month council contractors delivered their innovative, semi-permanent solution, keeping the scope and budget to a ‘no dig’, low disruption execution.

Waitematā Local Board Chair Genevieve Sage is pleased to see Auckland’s next generation of urban designers has helped shape their university environments.

“It means we’re creating uni neighbourhoods that better reflect the everyday needs of students and staff, and we’re also giving future spatial designers and planners real world experience as they begin their careers,” she says.

The students’ design for St Paul Street is anchored by two main elements: a ‘wandering line’ and a series of bench seats. The wandering line echoes the line of the Rangipuke ridge meeting the upper stream of Te Waihorotiu, re-enacting the slow pooling motion of waterways that were once present in the area. Concrete benches rise and fall in wave-like forms.

“Working on a live, quick-response project in collaboration with Auckland Council was a great way to ground our research students’ practice-based inquiries,” says Dr Carl Douglas, Head of Department at AUT University.

“Taking part in the St Paul Street project has been an invaluable experience for me. The project provided opportunities to collaborate with various real-life professionals, and as one of the main users of St Paul Street, I enjoyed contributing to the street’s vision to become a more pedestrian-friendly place,” says participating AUT student Emma Choi. 

Alfred Street

In a second design school partnership, a group of third year planning students from the University of Auckland are working on concepts for the renewal of Alfred Street.

Auckland Council’s design team (TMDO) collaborated with the Architecture & Planning School at the University of Auckland to build a concept for the next phase of the Alfred Street project, replacing the temporary plastic planters.  

Their brief was to create a medium-term, people-focused, healthy and biodiverse streetscape while delivering a lighter, quicker, cheaper execution.

In April, twelve student groups presented their concept designs to a panel of teaching staff and Auckland Council guest critics. The TMDO will review the student presentations and consolidate them into one streetscape design to be taken forward through detailed design and implementation.

“Our students have described this project as enlightening and enjoyable.  It is fantastic for the students to get to work on a real-world solution and work with not only creativity but also constraints. I hope that we can continue this collaboration further,” says Zoe Avery, University of Auckland Associate Director of Design.

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council has made large steps towards enhancing our emergency preparedness and response capabilities, since the extreme weather events of early 2023.  

That’s according to the Auditor-General’s report: Improving Aucklanders’ emergency preparedness, which was tabled in Parliament today. 

Councillor Sharon Stewart, Auckland Council’s Civil Defence and Emergency Management chairperson says the uptake on the OAG report recommendations shows the council is committed to being better prepared for future emergencies. 

“The flooding and cyclone events in early 2023 had a devasting toll on Auckland, with many people losing their homes and some people suffering the loss of a loved one. 

“In the aftermath of these tragic events it was clear the council needed to become better prepared to help Aucklanders in future emergencies. 

“We commissioned three independent reviews which all made a number of recommendations about enhancing our emergency response systems and processes. 

“I’m heartened by the progress made by Auckland Emergency Management in considering and implementing the recommendations of the reviews. 

“Continually striving to enhance our emergency preparedness will ultimately result in a safer region and could save lives.”  

Auckland Council Chief Executive Phil Wilson says last year was incredibly challenging and it was important to him that Auckland Council had a good honest look at how it did, and how well prepared it is.   

“A number of internal and independent reviews, including this one carried out by the Office of the Auditor General, contributed to a prioritised programme of work. 

“But we can’t take our foot off the pedal – the risk is too high. With complex and difficult recovery efforts continuing, the work is by no means over and our community continues to suffer. 

“We do not and will not shirk from the central role that Auckland Emergency Management and the council needs to play, but event after event shows us that as critical as our preparations are, we are not the only answer – every household in Tāmaki Makaurau needs to have a plan. 

“If you haven’t already, check your risk on Auckland Council’s

Flood Viewer and use the many guides available on Auckland Emergency Management’s website to put that plan in place for your home and whānau,” says Mr Wilson. 

The council engaged the Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) to report on how effectively Auckland Emergency Management has addressed the recommendations of three reviews following the early 2023 extreme weather events. 

These were: the Auckland Flood Response Review: Independent, External Review of Events, January 27-29, 2023 by Bush International Consulting (The Bush Review); the Auckland Severe Weather Events 2023 Debrief by Toa Consulting (The Toa Review) and the Auckland Council: Preparedness for responding to an emergency, Controller and Auditor-General, June 2023, (The OAG review). 

John Cranfield, Acting General Manager Auckland Emergency Management says he welcomes the OAG review and outlines the progress the council has made around enhancing emergency preparedness. 

“Since the flooding and cyclone events in early 2023, the council has been working tirelessly to improve how we respond to future emergency events and we have acted on the recommendations of the reviews. We have made real progress across a number of emergency preparedness areas. 

“Sites for new Civil Defence centres across Auckland have been identified to increase their number and geographical spread. They are now being provisioned and resourced.  

“In the training space, we conducted two large scale exercises (in October 2023 and March 2024), which gave us an opportunity to test our Emergency Coordination Centre, procedures, and response staff. Almost 400 Auckland Council staff have completed foundation level emergency management training through our ACES programme and new emergency response standard operating procedures and guides have been put in place for all staff, the Mayor and elected members. 

“Getting local communities emergency ready is a crucial element in Auckland’s emergency preparedness. A new team of community advisors are working with local boards to develop readiness and response plans and provide support to local boards to increase readiness capabilities. 

“Communications support has been enhanced within AEM, focusing on digital platforms, accessibility, increasing public awareness and keeping the Mayor, elected members and key stakeholders informed, during and after an emergency response. 

“The welfare coordination group has been reviewed and the terms of reference re-established to ensure a planned and well-coordinated cross agency approach to Auckland’s future emergency responses.” 

The OAG report found that Auckland Council is better placed today than it was in early 2023 to respond to the next major emergency, noting “there is more work to do to fully address and keep working to implement the recommendations of the three Auckland reviews.” 

The OAG report also stated that Auckland Council, “accepted the recommendations of the three reviews and developed plans to implement them” and once fully implemented the OAG “considers that all 51 recommendations [across the three reviews] have been met.” 

Source: Auckland Council

School holidays are just around the corner, and with them come a vast array of options to keep the whānau entertained for the duration of the break. 

From outdoor adventures to exploring your local maunga; indoor fun with roller skating to rock climbing, and even hydro sliding – there’s something for everyone. Have a look at the list below to get yourself inspired and ready for an active holiday with your tamariki – brought to you by Auckland Council. 

1. Check out the Auckland Heritage Festival

Explore Pacific ties at the Auckland Heritage Festival, which runs from 28 September to 13 October, with the theme of Moana Oceania – over130 free or low-cost events! Returning for its 20th year, the two-week festival includes talks, walks, exhibitions, performances, and workshops right across Tāmaki Makaurau – explore and commemorate the region’s Pacific history and heritage with friends and whānau.  

Visit Auckland Heritage Festival for the full programme.  

Event highlights include: 

Exploring the King of Tonga’s Trees at Atalanga 

Learn about the unique history and value of some of Auckland’s finest trees in their historic settings on The Tree Council’s guided walking tour of Atalanga, the King of Tonga’s Auckland Residence in Epsom.  

Tongan Indigenous Knowledge Showcase 

Our elderly Tongans possess a wealth of Tongan indigenous knowledge, and Fe’unukoula – Academy of Tongan Arts, Dance and Culture – would like to honour the uniqueness of these skills and knowledge in the Heritage Festival. Fe’unukoula Director Losalia Pusiaki Fifita leads a showcase explaining different types of attire worn by Tongan people. Visit our Tongan village and join in to learn about the skills of making table mats, wall hangings, laundry baskets, beautiful and colourful leis, the art of mat weaving and sinnet braiding, Tongan dancing and lots more. 

Guided Pasifika Heritage Walk of Ponsonby 

Take a stroll with charismatic Samoan street historian Reverend Mua Strickson-Pua along Ponsonby Road and discover the Pacific urban history and stories of Ponsonby. Hear about Pacific urban migration, dawn raids on overstayers, the Springbok Tour protest, the Polynesian Panthers, and much more. 

Tuia Mātauranga: The Ocean That Binds Us Together 

Uncover the rich voyaging traditions and cultures of Moana Oceania – the Pacific Ocean. Embark on a journey with storytellers Sonny Natanielu and Tony Marsters as they take you through the extraordinary achievements of the Pacific voyagers, highlighting their mātauranga, innovation and navigation prowess across the vast Pacific Ocean. Immerse yourself in the Tuia exhibition, delving into the tapestry of our migration history and settlement, prompting reflection on Aotearoa today and our collective aspirations for the future. 

Fakafetuiaga 

Reminisce and celebrate our beautiful Niue! Niue celebrates its 50th anniversary of self-governing, highlighting its relationship with Aotearoa. The island is commonly referred to as ‘The Rock’ of Polynesia, and it was European sailor Captain Cook who coined the famous phrase ‘Savage Islands’. Through historical imagery, we explore the timeless stories of Niue, the memories and identity that grounds our Niuean communities here in Aotearoa and abroad. 

Sustainable Conservation of Pacific Art and Heritage 

The team at Studio Izzo talk about their experiences working with Pacific artists on their artworks and more. As part of its everyday activities, Studio Izzo receives many items including those from public art galleries and communities. The talk explores some of these items, their meanings, and sustainable conservation methods for Pacific treasures. You are welcome to bring your own objects to discuss – the team is keen for questions about your treasures! 

2. Tūpuna Maunga – explore your maunga

Join a guided hīkoi on one of your local maunga. Choose from three specially selected sites to gather, honour, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Tūpuna Maunga (ancestral mountains) of Tāmaki Makaurau. This culturally enriching experience is open to everyone—register now through our Love Your Maunga Facebook page to secure your spot! 

Te Pane o Mataoho / Te Ara Pueru / Māngere Mountain  

• Friday, 4 October and Friday, 11 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am  
• Hosted by Māngere Mountain Education Centre 

Maungauika / North Head  

• Friday, 4 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am 
• Hosted by Explore Tāmaki  

Maungarei / Mount Wellington  

• Friday, 11 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am 
• Hosted by Explore Tāmaki 

3. Head to your local library

Our libraries are always buzzing with activity, but even more so during school holidays! For a list of what’s on at your local library, check out the Auckland Council Libraries school holiday event listings. You can also visit your local libraries Facebook page for more info. 

A few examples of the types of activities you can expect include author readings, art events, even live performances: 

Author Readings: 

Whangaparāoa Library

• Tuesday 1 October, 10.30am
•  Nicky Gumbrell will be in to read her adorable book “Mr. Bingley is Different” and she will be bringing some very special guests… the REAL DOGS who inspired the book, Mr Bingley and Manny! 

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THERE WILL BE DOGS IN ATTENDANCE. 

Titirangi Library 

• Friday 4 October, 10.30am – 11.30am 
• ‘The Squeakling’ Storytime with local illustrator, Ronja Schipper and author, Kristin Kelly. Join us for the launch of ‘The Squeakling’! Illustrator, Ronja Schipper, and author, Kristin Kelly will have a special reading of their new book followed by an opportunity to ask questions and learn about their creative processes. Suitable for the whole whanau! 

Art events: 

Northcote Library 

Pakuranga Library 

Live Performances: 

Warkworth Library 

Blockhouse Bay Library 

4. Learn to swim

Dive right in for some swimming lessons at select swim schools – for adults and kids alike! Our Pool and Leisure teams are offering intensive swim lesson blocks that you can book for one or two weeks, with a lesson each day. By attending daily and building on the progress from the previous session, you’ll be able to boost your confidence and improve your swimming skills significantly.  

Swim lessons available over school holidays at: 

• Albany Stadium Pool 
• WestWave Pools and Leisure 
• Takapuna Pools and Leisure 
• Tepid Baths 
• Manurewa Pools and Leisure 
• Glenfield Pools and Leisure 

5. More indoor fun

Become a gymnast with Tristar Gymnastics! Their holiday programme has something on offer every weekday, including tumbling, rhythmic, tramp or parkour to ensure an action-packed holiday break.

Other fun activities to try during the break include: 

6. Discover the great outdoors

Tāmaki Makaurau has a great variety of parks and reserves right across the region – that’s 28 regional parks, to be exact! For those keen on an outdoor adventure walk over the school holidays, here’s a few to choose from: 

Whakanewha Forest Path  (80 mins) 

Enjoy unique forests, a stunning beach, native bird song and scenic views on your next Waiheke trip.  

Mahurangi West– Cudlip Point Path (90 mins) 

A great stop if you’re exploring North Auckland. You’ll find sheltered bays, native bush, open pasture and historic sites.  

Auckland Botanic Gardens (90 mins)  

A must do any day in South Auckland and it’s dog friendly! 

Ōmana Perimeter Walk (60 mins) 

An ideal family park in East Auckland, with a shelly beach, shady pōhutukawa and outstanding views.  

Montana Trail – Cascade Kauri  (4.5 hours return loop) 

Head west for this walk and back in time, through some of the Waitakere ranges’ oldest and most precious stands of kauri.

7. Book an Auckland Council holiday park

Consider an affordable holiday escape with the whānau, right here in Tāmaki Makaurau. Bookings are available at any one of Auckland Council’s three holiday parks: Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park, Martins Bay Holiday Park and Whangateau Holiday Park – and for a lot less than a trip to Fiji! 

All Auckland Council holiday parks have a wide range of accommodation options and facilities to suit your needs. There’s also plenty of extra in and around each holiday park to keep everyone entertained for the duration of your stay. 

8. Add some sparkle with Vector Lights

Light up your weekends with Vector Lights Celebrating Auckland. Enjoy a stunning light and sound show celebrating Tāmaki Makaurau every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm until midnight, playing every 15 minutes.  

Get your friends and whānau together, head to one of the prime viewing spots and listen live at vector.co.nz/lights. Some of the best places to see the shows are: 

• Westhaven Marina 
• Silo Park 
• The end of Halsey Wharf (just out from the Viaduct Events Centre) 
• The end of Princes Wharf (outside the Hilton Auckland hotel) 
• The end of Queens Wharf (in front of The Cloud and The Lighthouse) 
• Little Shoal Bay 
• Hinemoa Park next to the Birkenhead Ferry Terminal 
• Maungawhau Mt Eden 
• Bayswater Marina 
• Takurunga Mt Victoria 

Source: Auckland Council

An assortment of vibrant and engaging events across Tāmaki Makaurau for Aucklanders to participate in and enjoy have been given a helping hand by Auckland Council.

On 24 September Auckland Council’s Community Committee approved an allocation of $460,500 from the Regional Events Fund Grants Programme to 21 organisations to help with their events.

These events deliver a range of outcomes and benefits to communities by contributing to a sense of place and connection.

Councillor Angela Dalton, chair of the Community Committee says it’s extremely important that a diverse range of events are regularly held in Auckland.

“Regular, vibrant events play an important part in Auckland’s cultural, sporting and social calendar,” says Cr Dalton.

“Events allow people from around Tāmaki Makaurau to come together and connect, learn and celebrate.”

“Many of the events we are supporting will bring economic benefits to nearby local businesses and the communities hosting them.”

A broad range of arts, sports and cultural events received funding including the Auckland International Buskers Festival, Takapuna Winter Lights, ASB Polyfest and Iwi of Origin.

Auckland Council’s Head of Events Glynn Leggat says council staff assessed each application against regional event funding criteria.

“A wide range of factors were considered in allocating funding including positive benefits to the community with particular emphasis on youth and Māori; how well the event is planned; community support and involvement and alignment with key dates such as Auckland Anniversary Weekend.”

“We’d like to thank all the organisations and community groups who put in the mahi to prepare for and host these events,” says Ms Leggat.

The Regional Event Grants Programme for 2024-25 has a total budget allocation of $600,000, of which $460,500 has been allocated in this first funding round.  The remaining unallocated budget of $139,500 is expected to be allocated in March 2025.

To learn more about the range of regional and local grants we provide and how you can apply for them, visit the Auckland Council website.

Regional Event Grant Programme Fund allocation for 2024/2025 – first round
Applicant	Event	Recommended funding allocation
Aktive	Iwi of Origin	$20,000
Alan Smythe Special Events (2020) Limited	Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park	$45,000
Aotearoa Latin American Community Incorported (ALAC Inc)	Family Day	$12,500
Athletics New Zealand Incorporated	2025 Sir Graeme Douglas International	$6,000
Auckland Anniversary Regatta Incorporated	Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta	$17,000
Auckland Children’s Christmas Parade Trust	Farmers Santa Parade	$17,000
Auckland Pride Incorporated	Auckland Pride March	$27,000
Burnett Foundation Aotearoa	Big Gay Out 2025	$17,000
Crackerjack Events	Auckland International Buskers Festival	$40,000
Environmental Hubs Aotearoa	EcoFest 2025	$25,000
Eventing Auckland Incorporated	Puhinui International Horse Trials	$15,000
Interacting	InterACT 2025!	$16,000
Interesting Things	Future Future	$11,000
New Zealand Eid Day Trust	New Zealand Eid Day, Eid al Fitr 2025	$12,000
Ngā Kaihoe O Aotearoa (Waka Ama New Zealand Incorporated)	2025 Takapuna Beach Cup	$9,000
Mahurangi Action Incorporated	Mahurangi Regatta	$6,000
Show Jumping Waitemata	Show Jumping Waitemata World Cup Festival	$11,000
The Polyfest Trust	ASB Polyfest	$75,000
Takapuna Beach Business Association	Takapuna Winter Lights	$44,000
Waiheke International Jazz Festival Limited	Waiheke Jazz Festival 2025	$8,000
Westlake Boys High School	Te Ahurea Tino Rangatiratanga 2024	$27,000
Total		$460,500