Category: Auckland Council

Source: Auckland Council

February marks one of the most important days in the calendar for Aotearoa New Zealand. 

Waitangi Day commemorates the day when 183 years ago, several Māori chiefs signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi; the founding documents of our nation.  

This day holds great significance in Aotearoa as a day to remember Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and brings with it reflections and celebrations year-on-year. For 2025 in Tāmaki Makaurau, this year’s Waitangi Day theme is ‘Te Tiriti ki Tāmaki Makaurau’, commemorating the historical importance in our region of where treaty signings took place. 

There are also many free, family-friendly events full of tasty kai, great music and enriching kōrero to commemorate our national holiday. 

Here’s a few to get you started: 

Waitangi ki Manukau 

A large crowd in attendance for the Waitangi ki Manukau event, with live music and delicious kai for all to enjoy.

Education is at the forefront this year at Waitangi ki Manukau, located at Barry Curtis Park (entrance opposite 260 Chapel Road, Flat Bush), and welcoming all to enjoy the day with great kai, lively music and exploration of the Treaty and its historical and cultural significance. Plenty of opportunities to get involved await visitors at The Waitangi Village, which has on offer weaving workshops and educational kōrero, designed to foster understanding of both Māori and Pacific cultures. 

Plus, there’s a curated market with Māōri arts and crafts, kai stalls showcasing delicious fusion of Māori and international flavours, and a designated play area for tamariki with engaging activities. 

There’s also an exciting line-up of musicians with headliners Dam Native, MAJIC, Tipene, Jordyn with a Why and many more!  

Waitangi at Waititi 

Festival attendees enjoying the performances at Waitangi at Waititi.

More family fun awaits in West Auckland at Parrs Park, thanks to Te Whānau o Waipareira, who are putting on an incredible event full of delicious kai and some kid-friendly rides for the whole whānau to enjoy. 

You won’t want to miss out on epic performers like Stan Walker, Mark Williams, Che Fu & The Kratez, Ladi 6, Black Slate, Corrella, Troy Kingi, Aaradhna, Rob Ruha and Annie Crummer. 

Waitangi Day ki Tāmaki 

Kapa Haka performers sharing Māori tradition with their waiata / song.

You can also head to Point England Reserve, which will be bursting with family friendly activity for the day.  

Get amongst the celebrations and enjoy yummy kai, arts and craft stalls, and a live music stage featuring top musicians like Katchafire, Teina Mamaori, Norizin, Lopz & the Rasta, Queen Shirl’e Academy, Kas Tha Feelstyle, as well as kapa haka groups. 

Vector Lights for Waitangi Day 

Enjoy a Waitangi-themed light show to delight friends and whānau with Vector Lights on the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

As the sun sets, enjoy a Waitangi-themed light show to delight friends and whānau with Vector Lights on the Auckland Harbour Bridge.  Designed by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, in collaboration with Mandylights, the dazzling show is a celebration of the many tūpuna gone before who laid a strong foundation for their descendants, creating a legacy and everlasting connection to their whenua, to their moana and to each other. 

The accompanied waiata ‘Maunga’ by siblings Majic Pāora and Robbie Pāora can be listened to live at vector.co.nz/lights. The show will repeat every 15 minutes from 9pm until midnight. 

Here’s a tip: grab your paraikete (blanket) and catch the show from some of the best viewing places like Silo Park, Bayswater Marina and Takarunga Mt Victoria! 

Please note, due to critical maintenance work by NZTA, some of the lights will not appear on the west side overarch of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Completion of the work is expected by 31 March 2025. 

Source: Auckland Council

It is time to unleash your views on proposed changes to Auckland’s dog rules. You can have your say by taking part in the 5-week consultation from Monday 20 January until Sunday 23 February. 

The changes being proposed are part of a regular review of Auckland’s dog policy, Dog Management Bylaw and local dog access rules.  

Councillor Josephine Bartley, chair of Auckland Council’s Regulatory and Safety Committee says the proposals aim to strike a fair balance for everyone who uses Auckland’s public places. 

“We are so lucky to have a variety of public spaces to share in Tāmaki Makaurau. It’s important we maintain a balance that respects everybody’s right to use them. 

“The changes being put forward aim to keep a good mix of dog-friendly and dog-free spaces so there are places for dogs, and anyone who is not a dog person, to enjoy. This will also help to protect vulnerable wildlife, like endangered shorebirds nesting on our beaches, and kauri in specific places”, she says. 

Data also shows that multiple dogs being walked together appears to be an emerging issue for Aucklanders, so a limit on the number of dogs that can be walked at the same time is being proposed.  

“This aims to respond to the concerns in a way that’s fair and reasonable, without imposing unnecessary restrictions. Ultimately, everyone should feel safe and welcome to visit Auckland’s parks, beaches and public spaces – this is at the heart of these proposals. 

“This is a topic that people are passionate about – I know as well as anyone that we want the best for our beloved pets. Testing these changes with Aucklanders is key to making sure we have it right. If this is important to you, I strongly encourage you to have your say online, or at one of the many engagement events being held across the region.” says Josephine.

Some of the changes being put forward aim to help protect endangered native dotterels.

Doggy details – what are the proposed changes? 

The changes aim to maintain a balance of dog-friendly and dog-free spaces in Tāmaki Makaurau. They cover dog access rules (where dogs can go off a leash, on a leash, or are not allowed) at 14 regional parks and 64 places in local parks and beaches across the region. New off-leash areas are recommended, as well as changes to keep dogs out of places with vulnerable wildlife, and to provide some places for the public to visit that are dog-free. 

Under the proposed changes, people can walk a maximum of six dogs at once and only three of those dogs can be off a leash. This means you could walk three dogs off a leash at once, or three dogs off a leash and an additional three dogs on a leash, or six dogs on a leash.  

Finally, some existing rules in the policy and bylaw will be made clearer. This includes the need for any dogs classified as menacing and dangerous outside of Auckland to be neutered if they are moved here, rules and exemptions for working dogs and dogs in vehicles, plus dog access rules for places such as council car parks and camping grounds.  

What does the data say? 

Early feedback from Aucklanders, interviews with groups and individuals that have an interest in dog rules, and analysis of relevant data, including complaints to the council, animal management service requests and dog registrations, has shaped the proposed changes.

An analysis of dog-related complaint data found complaints about dog access rules not being followed and multiple dogs being walked at once. In a preliminary survey in March 2024, Aucklanders told us that owners not picking up after their dog, dogs wandering off-leash in on-leash areas and packs of dogs taking up pathways were of concern to them.  

Reviewing the data available to the council is a valuable first step when updating policies or bylaws. It has helped to show where the policy works well, and where improvements can be made. 

What could change in my area? 

Parks and beaches with proposed changes to local dog access rules include: 

Central/West 

North 

• Long Bay Regional Park 

• Te Ārai Regional Park 

• Snells Beach (Rodney) 

South 

• Waitawa Regional Park 

You can view the full list and changes being put forward in the statement of proposal documents for the policy and bylaw review (including regional parks) and local dog access rules. The documents are available on AKHaveYourSay 

Are we barking up the right tree? Have your say now. 

Have your say from Monday 20 January until 11.59pm on Sunday 23 February. You can take part online or at one of the 23 engagement events happening across the region.  

Visit AKHaveYourSay.nz to view the full list of proposed changes, find out more about the engagement events, and take part in the consultation. 

Source: Auckland Council

For two summers, south Titirangi locals were left scratching their heads over an unsettling sight: an alarming number of dead tūī beneath the same majestic pōhutukawa tree.

As the tree burst into its iconic crimson bloom, attracting a chorus of nectar-feeding birds, it also seemed to be the site of an ‘“avian whodunit’”.

David Blake, a community resident and conservation enthusiast, was the first to sound the alarm.

“When I found the first ones, I thought it might be poison. It was heartbreaking,” he shared.

But poison was ruled out when he called in the experts at Auckland Council, and the investigation eliminated every imaginable culprit—from bird flu to BB gun.

The real breakthrough came thanks to Auckland Council’s senior ecologist Sarah Gibbs, and her colleagues.

“It was a bit like CSI: tūī,” Ms Gibbs said cheekily.

“In all seriousness, tūī are a beloved native bird, and we don’t like to see them turning up dead without explanation.

“We tested everything and got nowhere until a Massey University vet, Dr Alvaro Wehrle-Martinez, carried out a postmortem on the tui and confirmed the cause – electrocution.

Mystery solved: it turns out power lines running through the iconic pōhutukawa tree in south Titirangi were the problem.”

Ironically, the tree feeding the tūī a summer feast was also serving as an accidental hazard.

Tūī, in this nectar rich excitement, were brushing against the power lines, turning a festive feast into a deadly misstep.

The breakthrough prompted swift action. Arborists trimmed the pōhutukawa back from the wires to protect both the tree and its feathered diners.

“It’s not ideal to trim such a magnificent tree,” acknowledged Gibbs, “but this way, the tūī can safely enjoy their summer smorgasbord.”

The case closed with a sigh of relief and some new learnings, while preserving this treasured Titirangi pōhutukawa, an essential food source for nectar-eating birds – as part of the local ecosystem.

David Blake reflects on the saga with mixed emotions.

“I’m glad we solved it but will miss seeing so many tūī in one place, now the tree has had a haircut. Still, better a few less blooms than a few less tūī.”

And so, south Titirangi’s summer soundtrack continues, a little less ‘shocking’, but just as sweet.

Source: Auckland Council

Resource consents have been approved for two much-needed flood resilience projects in Māngere. 

Neighbourhoods around the Te Ararata Stream in Māngere Central and Harania Creek in Māngere East suffered major flooding in 2023. The projects will reduce the flood risk for hundreds of homes, including some where there is a potential future risk to life.  

“It’s good to see the resource consent approvals process sorted so we can get on with work to improve resilience and protect the Māngere community from major flooding in the future,” says Mayor Wayne Brown. 

“Getting things fixed has always been a key focus of mine and these projects are an example of what can happen when we cut out the red tape.  Once more, it will be paid for with money set aside as part of the Long-term Plan. 

“Our Māngere communities were deeply affected by the 2023 floods. Upgrading the current infrastructure ensures any future damage is minimised and will provide confidence to those whose homes are highly prone to future flooding events.”

Craig McIlroy, General Manager Healthy Waters and Flood Resilience acknowledges the collaborative effort and co-funding behind these projects.

“We’re getting all the approvals for these projects in record time thanks to a massive team effort from our community and Government partners,” says Mr McIlroy.

“This means we’ll likely have spades in the ground by the middle of this year and hope to be finished end-2026.” 

Project details 

Work in both catchment areas will address key blockage points so that in extreme storms rainwater can flow more easily out into the Manukau Harbour.  

In Te Ararata, the culverts under the Walmsley Road bridge will be upgraded to increase water flow as well as a debris catching structure to reduce potential blockages.  A permanent maintenance platform and accessway to the Mahunga Drive culverts will also be built to enable quicker and easier access for maintenance crews.  

In Harania, the existing culverts through the embankment between Blake and Bicknell roads will be removed and replaced with a pipe-bridge and pedestrian bridge. This will enable the waterways around Blake Road Reserve to flow more freely and lessen the likelihood of flooding in the future.

“Knowing these improvements are on the way will be a huge relief for residents. We’re committed to ongoing community engagement as the work progresses,” adds Mr McIlroy.

Source: Auckland Council

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has moved Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland into a restricted fire season from Thursday 16 January until further notice.

A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an outdoor fire will need a fire permit authorised by Fire and Emergency, which they can apply for at checkitsalright.nz.

Fire and Emergency’s Te Hiku Region Manager Ron Devlin says outdoor fires will be restricted in the Waitematā, Auckland City and Counties Manukau districts due to the high fire risk throughout Auckland at present.

“While there is some rain forecast next week, this isn’t going to be enough to counter the effects of the recent warm, dry weather,” he says.

“We continually monitor the weather conditions throughout the region, and keep an eye on how quickly vegetation is drying out.

“Right now, we consider flammable vegetation such as mānuka, kānuka and grass, and forestry areas as being particularly high risk, as these burn easily, spread fast, and can be really difficult to contain.”

The Hauraki Gulf Islands remain in a prohibited fire season, which means all outdoor fires are banned on the islands.

“If you’re thinking about starting a fire, you must go to www.checkitsalright.nz first to find out if you can, and what restrictions apply,” Ron Devlin says.

“There’s also excellent safety advice, which I strongly urge people to follow, to help us keep Tāmaki Makaurau fire-free this summer.”

An image from the end of Anawhata Road, taken on Thursday 16 January 2025, shows the devastation caused by a fire to native vegetation on the headland.

Fire risk prompts warning from regional parks rangers

As a total fire ban applies to the Auckland region , Auckland Council rangers are reminding visitors to avoid taking any risks with barbecues, fireworks and fires in remote park areas to prevent further damage from outbreaks. 

Scott De Silva, Regional Parks Manager, says uncontrolled recent fires at Te Henga Bethells Beach, Long Bay and at Anawhata Beach show how quickly fires can spread at the height of summer.

“We are urging people to be sensible and mindful of the dry conditions, especially now that Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s fire restrictions have been extended.

“Remote locations, uneven terrain, and difficult access to water present a serious challenge to fight fires in our regional parks. Despite this, the support we receive from Fire and Emergency NZ in response to these incidents has been fantastic,” says Scott.

Fire and Emergency placed the season’s first fire restrictions in Tāmaki Makaurau on 2 December across the Hauraki Gulf islands, which remain in place.

With a shift to a La Niña weather pattern, from last summer’s El Niño, bringing warmer than normal temperatures over much of the country, any rainfall during the summer months is unlikely to prevent vegetation from drying out.

“Don’t take the risk of lighting any fires or fireworks – just one spark can get out of control so quickly and have devastating consequences for the safety of people, their livelihoods and of course, the flora and fauna we are trying to protect,” says Scott.

What does a total fire ban mean?

• Open fires are prohibited in all public areas throughout Auckland

• This includes on beaches and foreshores, in parks, conservation areas and forests

• It’s prohibited to light fireworks in any public places.

Firewise tips

• Avoid any outdoor activity that could cause a spark.

• Leave portable barbecues at home.

• Only use established barbecues at parks and beach areas to cook food.

• If you see smoke that could be a threat, dial 111.

Visit checkitsalright.nz for updates to the fire season (currently prohibited, a total fire ban).

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Transport re-opened Pine Valley Road in Dairy Flat late last year after a three-month closure to fix an 18-metre slip and damage to a culvert sustained during the severe weather events of early 2023.

The road reconstruction work began in September 2024 near 257 Pine Valley Road, and the road was closed to all but residents with traffic detoured via Kahikatea Flat Road and Dairy Flat Road.

An 86-metre block retaining wall has been built on the southern side of the road and a large box culvert replacement installed to re-route stormwater beneath the road.

Project Manager Jay Badenhorst says the scale of the project meant the road needed to be fully closed for safety reasons and to complete the works efficiently with minimum cost.

“Construction crews worked six days per week for up to 12 hours per day to complete the works and reconnect Pine Valley Road before the end of year holiday period,” he said.

“I’d like to issue a big shout out to the team that delivered this exceptional work and thank you to the Pine Valley Road residents and the surrounding community for their patience.”

More than 3000 tonnes of soil was removed during the excavation of the roadway and existing culvert and 15 sheet piles were installed to support a 500+ block Magnum stone wall to support the damaged road.

A 2.5m x 2m longbox culvert was then built six metres below the road to direct water from the southern to the northern side of the road, and to prevent erosion and maintain road stability.

Large stones called riprap now protect the embankment by deflecting water energy and stopping soil erosion, and power and internet services relocated during the build have been reconnected.

The Pine Valley Road reconstruction work is one of more than 800 significant flood recovery projects being managed by AT since the 2023 severe weather events. Find out more on the Auckland Transport website.

Source: Auckland Council

Locals and visitors may see slimy algae – usually black or dark green in colour, in the sea and on beaches in the region this summer.

This could be the cyanobacteria Okeania spp. that has occurred during the last two summers. Last summer large quantities of the algae washed up on shore on Waiheke Island and Kawakawa Bay.

More recently, in October and November 2024, the algae has washed up on Waiheke Island and at Algies Bay, in Auckland’s north. In January 2025, the algae has washed up on beaches near Pine Harbour Marina in Beachlands. The algae could appear on other beaches around the region this summer.

Paul Klinac General Manager Engineering, Assets and Technical Advisory, reassures the public there’s no need for concern about the algae, but advises people avoid touching it.

“During summer, it’s common to see all types of algae blooms occurring. We are continuing to monitor Okeania spp. and are ready to act, if required.

“In the meantime, if you see the slimy algae around the region, please avoid contact with it as it could lead to skin, eye and respiratory irritations. Keep an eye on your dogs, as well, and ensure they avoid the algae.”

About cyanobacteria Okeania spp.

Generally, the drivers of cyanobacterial blooms are complex, and it is difficult to predict or explain where they may occur, as well as their size and duration.

This is because numerous environmental conditions need to be met to enable the rapid growth of the cyanobacteria – this includes calm weather conditions, plenty of light, warm seawater temperatures and sufficient nutrients to sustain their growth.

While we don’t know what causes it to bloom in different locations from year to year, the warm sea temperatures are likely contributing to the recurring blooms.

There is still much to find out about the ecology and toxicology of Okeania spp. However, we do know from previous observations in the Hauraki Gulf, and from overseas, that this grows in the shallow seabed area.

Because it is naturally widely distributed in low abundances and growing sub-tidally, it is impossible to remove it completely from the marine environment.

Staying safe at affected beaches 

The beaches where the algae are present remain open to the public but Auckland Council advises the following: 

• Avoid contact with the algae, including wading in affected areas, as it could lead to skin, eye and respiratory irritation 

• If you feel unwell as a result of contact with the bloom, contact your doctor, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 

• Do not gather or take algae from the beach for things like using on your garden  

• Keep dogs away from the algae and any decomposing material which could cause a reaction 

• Do not gather or consume shellfish from the affected beaches. 

Frequently asked questions about cyanobacteria 

What are cyanobacteria? 

Cyanobacteria (or blue-green algae) are naturally occurring microscopic organisms that live in a range of aquatic environments, from near-pristine to those more impacted by land use. 

Are cyanobacteria harmful to humans? 

Some species of cyanobacteria (including Okeania spp. ) are known to produce toxins – collectively referred to as lyngbyatoxins – which could lead to skin, eye and respiratory irritations. 

Do cyanobacteria originate from outside New Zealand? 

No. Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring in New Zealand waters. 

Are cyanobacteria common in New Zealand waters? 

The cyanobacteria Okeania spp. occurs in low abundance throughout the Hauraki Gulf. Blooms of the filamentous cyanobacterium identified at the time as Lyngbya majuscula have been reported in various parts of the Hauraki Gulf particularly in the Omana Beach area.

There have also been reports of previous summer blooms at sites in eastern Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf (Musick Point, Eastern Beach and Howick) as well as sites in the Manukau Harbour (Kaitarakihi Bay) and at North Head in the Waitematā Harbour.

Some of the earliest records of Lyngbya spp. go back to surveys in the 1950s and in the 1970’s it was described as a seasonally dominant species on rock platforms around Motukaraka Island. Through the 2000’s there were regular occurrences of blooms around the Beachlands and Ōmana areas. 

Why is the cyanobacteria occurring now?

The drivers of cyanobacterial blooms are complex, and it is very difficult to predict or explain where they may occur, as well as their size and duration. This is because numerous environmental conditions need to be met to enable the rapid growth of the cyanobacteria (calm weather conditions, plenty of light, warm seawater temperatures and sufficient nutrients to sustain their growth), followed by the right conditions to dislodge blooms (ie stormy weather).

Once dislodged, factors such as the tidal conditions and wind direction need to be understood to predict where blooms may eventually be deposited. These requirements mean blooms most commonly occur during spring and summer, and are a natural phenomenon in shallow, productive coasts. It is likely that a perfect combination of conditions in recent months has resulted in the current washed up bloom on Waiheke Island and Algies Bay.

What impact does cyanobacteria have on the environment? 

Some cyanobacteria blooms can have serious impacts on aquatic ecosystems in general including potential toxic effects due to smothering and shading. However, there is a lack of research when it comes to the environmental impacts of Okeania spp. 

What research is being carried out into the cyanobacteria?

• Working closely with Auckland Council, Cawthron Institute has identified the dominant component of the cyanobacterial mats as Okeania. Dr Laura Biessy at Cawthron Institute has carried out some analysis to characterise the species responsible for these blooms on Waiheke Island and assess their toxicity.  However, there is a lack of research surrounding the ecology, toxicity and impact on the environment of benthic cyanobacterial species such as Okeania.
• Cawthron Institute recently published a study of shellfish collected from beaches on Waiheke Island that have been affected by Okeania blooms. They were tested for lyngbyatoxin-A (LTA) accumulation, and the results confirmed LTA had accumulated in marine snails, rock oysters and cockles collected near the algae mats. These results underline the need for further studies assessing the risks of human exposure to LTA through seafood consumption.
• Dr Biessy is currently trying to isolate and culture this species to enable future research, in particular the ecology of the species, its preferred growing conditions (temperature, salinity, nutrients, etc.) and habitat. These answers would allow us to predict when future blooms might occur and what could be done to mitigate these blooms.

Source: Auckland Council

If you’re looking for new places and walks to explore with your dog this summer, you’ll find hundreds of options across Tāmaki Makaurau. Here are a few of our top picks ordered by location:  

North/West 

Birkenhead and Northcote offer a range of bush and beach options, as well as spectacular views across the inner Waitematā Harbour and a number of dog-friendly cafes. Kauri Point Domain is off-leash at all times and you can follow a track down to Fitzpatrick Bay where dogs can enjoy an off-leash paddle between 5pm and 10am in summer and anytime in other months. 

Sanders Reserve 

Sanders Reserve is a scenic coastal reserve in the north-west overlooking the Waitematā.  

There is an easy gravel loop path lined with mānuka trees and native bush that circles a fenced off-leash dog exercise area. After enjoying the short loop walk your dog can enjoy a run around in the open green spaces. 

Most dog walkers start this walk at the bottom of Sanders Road for easy access. You can also start at the main car park by the pavilion and playground and follow the signs towards the dog zone in the south-eastern part of the reserve. 

Te Ara Manawa / Hobsonville Point Path 

Hobsonville Point is an old Air Force community that has been redeveloped into a well-planned urban environment sitting on the water’s edge.  

The Te Ara Manawa / Hobsonville Point Path is a sixty-minute walk that meanders along the waterfront and through the new housing developments. You can find parking near the ferry terminal, which is a good place to start your walk. Dogs need to stay on their leashes, but there is an off-leash dog area at Te Onekiritea Point not far from the ferry stop.  

Take in the stunning views and beautiful landscaping along the waterfront as you walk or cycle past the Old Wharf Lookout, the former officers’ accommodation and Chichester Cottage.

Ōrākei Basin  

Enjoy a walk around this picturesque lagoon located in a volcanic crater. The suggested starting point is Purewa Road in Meadowbank. You can access the walk from Ōrākei and Meadowbank train stations, and there are also entry points on Meadowbank Road, Lucerne Road, Upland Road and Ōrākei Road. 

Admire views over the Auckland city skyline and you may even be able to enjoy watching some water sports as you walk.  Ōrākei Basin also has a large off-leash area – just remember to pay attention to the signs and observe the on-leash restrictions. 

Ōrākei Basin is a picturesque lagoon located in a volcanic crater, known for its watersports. This walk takes you around the edge of the basin using the boardwalk and the bridge across the Purewa arm of the basin.

There is a fantastic off-leash dog area with a wide expansive green space for dogs to run around (please check the signs). 

If you have kids in tow check out the two great playgrounds with adventure equipment, flying fox, and a large tunnel slide.  

South/East 

Macleans Park 

Enjoy a walk through Macleans Park with spectacular views to the Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands.  

Start at Macleans Road, or from any of the access points to Macleans Park from local streets. The loop winds through regenerating bush and wetland areas and your dog can enjoy an extra run around in the off-leash reserve areas.  

The kids play area is also a great spot to relax and take in the scenery, make sure you keep your dog on the leash when near the playground. 

Fantastic walk through Macleans Park combining bush, wetlands and spectacular sea views. Off-leash reserve areas make the route ideal for dog walking.

Tōtara Park

Take your furry friend for a walk along the fringe of a Tōtara forest at Tōtara Park. Enter Tōtara Park from the Wairere Road entrance, and head left until you find the gates that mark the start of the path.  

Ōwairaka / Mt Albert pathway.

Ōwairaka / Te Ahi-kā-a-Rakataura / Mt Albert 

Enjoy expansive views over the city as you walk among the trees on one of Auckland’s ancestral maunga. Your dog must remain on their leash while walking in the park, however there is a dedicated off-leash exercise area halfway around the loop where you can let your furry friend get all of that excess energy out.  

Waiatarua Reserve 

Waiatarua Reserve, off Abbotts Way in Remuera, is well known and loved for its path around the wetlands where you and your canine companions can enjoy an off-leash walk (put the leash back on in the main central wetland area and on viewing platforms) and a dog swimming hole. Northern Remuera is also home to Waiata Reserve, between Victoria Avenue and Orakei Road, where there’s off-leash access at all times. 

Enjoy the good network of paths around the reserve and watch out for bird life – there are several bird viewing areas off the main path.

Rules for walking your dog in public places 

To keep everyone safe there are rules for walking your dog in public places like parks, reserves, pathways, beaches and tūpuna maunga (ancestral mountains) across Auckland. 

In general, dogs must be on-leash at all times in all council-controlled public places with unrestricted access. It’s a little different for beaches, where summer and winter restrictions apply. During the winter months more relaxed hours for dogs off-leash start from 2 March, while throughout the summer months (until 1 March) dogs are not allowed on most beaches between 10am to 5pm. 

Additionally off-leash walks and exercise are allowed outside these hours. Remember that even though your dog is off-leash you’ll need to make sure they are still under control. 

It’s best to visit Auckland Council’s website before leaving home to find out exactly what rules apply where. You can also find more fantastic walking spots for you and your dog on our website.

Source: Auckland Council

Watercare is laying the groundwork for its first permanent non-potable tanker filling station in Māngere.

The $1.2 million filling station will be available to commercial customers for non-drinking purposes such as dust suppression, house cleaning, irrigation, and process water.

It is being built a block away from the Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant, on the corner of Greenwood and Ascot roads.

Watercare chief operations officer Mark Bourne says the filling station will replace the last remaining temporary non-potable tanker filling station in Penrose.

“The Penrose non-potable tanker filling station was one of four commissioned to support commercial and construction services affected by water restrictions during the height of the 2020 drought.

“After the drought, all the stations except for the one in Penrose were closed due to the high running costs and upgrades required to keep them operating.”

Watercare head of water planning Tim Scheirlinck describes the non-potable tanker filling station as a cost-effective solution for commercial and construction partners.

“We anticipate achieving full cost recovery for the new permanent tanker filling station at Māngere, with the revenue generated from the sale of non-potable water expected to cover ongoing operational costs.”

Project manager Mohamed Abdelmageed says the filling station will draw water from an established bore that is already on-site.

“We project that the filling station will be able to service around 20 tankers a day. The filling station will be fully automated. Tanker drivers will need to use a swipe card to fill up their tanker. The filling station will be able to store up to 120,000 litres across its four tanks.”

Watercare project manager Mohamed Abdelmageed says the tanker filling station will be able to store up to 120,000 litres across its four tanks.

Abdelmageed says the tanker filling station will only be designed to fill one tanker at a time.

“From the tanks, the water goes to a tanker filling shed which has a fire hose connection for them to fill up from.

“Tanker operators need to connect their own hoses to the filling point and fill their trucks at the top.”

Abdelmageed says the non-potable filling station is expected to be completed by the end of March.

The permanent non potable tanker filling station is on track to be completed in March.

“The construction of the filling station will be straightforward.

“Most of the work will be carried out between 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. Work on Saturdays will only take place if necessary.

“Traffic management will only be in place while the vehicle crossing is being constructed.”

Source: Auckland Council

Pique your senses in our city centre this Lunar New Year.

Midtown’s lanes and squares will be alive with a creative and cultural buzz inspired by Asian traditions and infused with a unique Auckland flavour.

From 26 January to 22 February, feel uplifted by the colours, sounds, tastes and beats of Asia, joining millions around the world who celebrate Lunar New Year.

Throughout the festival, we invite you to take part in the inaugural Bao and Boba promotion. It’s simple; if you dine in the city centre and vote for your top shop you’ll be in to win.

Sculptures bring smiles

Shown first at the Louvre Museum in Paris and later in London, Berlin, Kobe and Sydney among other cities, Chubby Women by acclaimed Chinese artist Xu Hongfei are coming to Aotea Square. These light-hearted, body-positive sculptures of voluptuous women – reminiscent of masterpieces by Titian and Rubens – bring smiles wherever they go.

Lucky Cats beckon

The Lucky Cat figurine beckons good fortune and prosperity, so don’t miss our selfie sensation in the making. By the clocktower of the Auckland Town Hall you’ll meet a three metre high Lucky Cat popping cute finger-hearts in Kiwi style. In Darby Street neon red Lucky Cats will shine from lamp posts and in Bledisloe Lane lightboxes will display Asian art.

Promenade of flavours

Immerse yourself in a free summer event transforming Te Hā o Hine (Khartoum Place) and Lorne Street into an exciting Asian street festival. Cheer the crews in the street dance battle or relax and learn Tai Chi.

Enjoy delicious food on a promenade of outdoor tables where a food ambassador will share with you the history of the dish you’re enjoying. Experience a real sense of community while watching dragon dances, traditional instrument buskers, local Asian musicians and storytellers.

Read more about the Midtown Street Party for Lunar New Year at OurAuckland.

Lion dances and bubble tea

At Auckland Art Gallery, witness the spectacular Tung Tek lion dancers performing on the forecourt, chilled sounds from DJ EDY and guitarist Sam Nakamura, bubble tea, a menu of family-focused workshops inspired by delicious yee sang, and many other exciting Lunar New Year activities.

Read more about Auckland Art Gallery events here.

Karaoke and mahjong

And bring the whole family to Lunar New Year in Aotea Square as part of Auckland Live’s Summer in the Square. Experience gravity-defying dance, the Lunar New Year karaoke competition and mahjong workshops teaching the classic game, and myriad more.

Read more about Lunar New Year in Aotea Square at OurAuckland.

Scroll through to the full Lunar New Year programme with dates, times and venues at OurAuckland.

Auckland Council Lunar New Year festival director Eric Ngan says our growing pan-Asian population is an asset to Auckland. He says young Asian Kiwis are proud of their roots, enjoy life in this city, and continue to creatively evolve their traditions.

“The tradition of sharing time and food together is as strong as ever in the weeks of Lunar New Year. The metaphors that speak to the phases of the moon – change, brightness, and wholeness – are reflected in the nature of our Lunar New Year celebrations, such as family reunion dinners, striving for harmony and an aspirational future,” he says.

The Lunar New Year Festival is proudly supported by the city centre targeted rate.