Category: Auckland Council

Source: Auckland Council

Christmas is just around the corner, and for most Aucklanders it’s time to come together with family and share kai and gifts. But not everyone is able to afford what many of us take for granted during the festive season.

Auckland Council is once again supporting the Auckland City Mission –Te Tāpui Atawhai Auckland’s Angels appeal, to help people in the greatest need, celebrate Christmas.

The council is asking for unwrapped gift donations from the public to help ensure that those in need don’t miss out, so they can also have an enjoyable Christmas.

Collection points for food and gift donations will be in place at all Auckland Council libraries, and pools and recreation centres from 2 December.

Donations close on 19 December, allowing the Auckland City Mission team enough time to sort and pack donations, and get them to whānau in time for Christmas.

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says he’s proud of the contributions made by Aucklanders in previous years’ appeals and hopes the appeals will be supported again in 2024.

“It can be really tough for some families, with parents wanting to make Christmas Day a fun and festive event for their children, but some simply can’t afford to buy presents.

“Please think of those less well off than yourself this festive season and give what you can – even something little will go a long way to brightening up a child’s Christmas Day.”

Auckland City Missioner Helen Robinson says there is a real need for food and gift donations this Christmas, as many Aucklanders struggle financially.”

“Aucklanders are generous and care for one another, so I encourage you to think about those who are doing it tough and donate. Your donation, no matter how small, will brighten up a fellow-Aucklander’s Christmas, whether they be an adult or a child.”

“A big thank you to Auckland Council for supporting the Mission again this Christmas, by ensuring Aucklanders are able to easily donate across the region.”

How to donate 

• You can leave your food or gift donation at a collection point at one of the council’s libraries, pools or leisure centres from 2 December.

• Drop off your gift at the Mission’s HomeGround, 195 Federal Street, Auckland Central – 9 December to 20 December Monday – Friday 12 noon to 6pm.

• Make a donation online via the Auckland’s Angels website.

What is needed? 

Food Parcel Items: below is a list of non-perishable items that go into Mission food parcels at Christmas time: 

• Christmas treats

• Tinned vegetables, such as tomatoes, corn, peas or beans

• Tinned soup

• Baked beans and tinned spaghetti

• Tinned fruit

• Tinned meat and fish

• Pasta sauce, pasta and rice

• Breakfast cereal and muesli bars

• Spreads, such as jam, peanut butter or honey

• Flour and sugar

• Bay food

• Nappies

• Toilet rolls

• Soap and shampoo

• Feminine hygiene products

• Deodorant

Gift Ideas 

Donations of new, unwrapped gifts for children and teenagers are hugely appreciated. Please do not gift clothes as it is difficult to allocate sizes, or toys with batteries. Here are a few popular gift ideas: 

• Infants: rattles, night lights, bath toys, teething rings

• Toddlers: bath toys, puzzles, soft toys, Duplo, pull-along toys

• Primary school: puzzles, dress-ups, dolls/action figures, Lego, craft kits, toy cars, animal figurines 

• Teenagers: sports ball, scarfs, hats, beach towels, toiletries, gift voucher or Prezzy card

• Family/all ages: board games, books, stationery, reusable drink bottles, toiletries, gift voucher or Prezzy card.

For further information about Auckland’s Angels, visit the Auckland City Mission’s website.

Source: Auckland Council

New rules to help reduce the harm caused by alcohol are set to take effect in Tāmaki Makaurau. 

From 9 December, off-licences such as bottle shops, supermarkets and other shops that sell alcohol to take away, will no longer be able to sell alcohol after 9pm in a change introduced under Auckland’s new local alcohol policy.  

Councillor Josephine Bartley is chair of the region’s Regulatory and Safety Committee and says getting to this stage is an important milestone in helping to reduce alcohol-related harm and anti-social behaviour. 

“This change has been a long-time coming. Communities have been very clear that reducing the harm alcohol can cause to Aucklanders, their friends and families truly matters to them.  

“There’s also a significant safety aspect to this. Across Tāmaki Makaurau, alcohol-related crime and disorder is at its worst between 9pm and 1am. Evidence suggests most alcohol in New Zealand is sold at off-licences and drunk at home or other public places. Preventing alcohol from being purchased late at night simply means it’s less accessible to be consumed during this time.  

“The policy has received a huge amount of public support. There was applause in the council chamber when it was adopted.” 

The local alcohol policy was adopted unanimously by Auckland’s mayor and councillors in August 2024.  

Louise Mason, General Manager of Policy at Auckland Council says businesses and the public played a vital role in shaping a fair and reasonable policy that could help reduce levels of alcohol-related harm. 

“We heard from businesses that supported this change during the policy’s consultation period. Some were supportive of this change as it applies to all off-licences, and so keeps things fair and can be safer for staff members that work late at night. 

“The changes under the local alcohol policy have been introduced in stages to give businesses and their customers time to prepare. We’ve been keeping businesses informed since the policy was adopted in August.” 

What will change?  

From 9 December, there will be changes to the hours that alcohol can be sold at licensed shops, bars, restaurants and clubs.  

At licensed shops, such as supermarkets and bottle shops, alcohol can be sold no later than 9pm.  

Licensed bars and restaurants will be able to sell alcohol up until 4am in the city centre, and 3am outside of the city centre, as long as their licence currently permits them to do this.  

Sports clubs and RSAs will be able to sell alcohol until 1am if they are licensed to do so. 

The policy will not impact trading hours for special licences for festivals and events. These will continue to be assessed by the District Licensing Committee, as they are now. 

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council is celebrating yet another year of achieving world-class park management standards, as eight parks spanning close to 9000 hectares across Tāmaki Makaurau receive the prestigious Green Flag Award.

These international awards are given annually to parks and green spaces that meet rigorous quality benchmarks. Each park is carefully evaluated and visited by professional judges, who assess their safety, upkeep, sustainability, and appeal to the community.

Parks Committee chair, Councillor Ken Turner, says 23 Auckland sites have been recognised since the awards scheme was introduced in 2012, which reflects an exceptionally high standard across the region.

“It takes a lot of people to achieve these awards, and countless hours of work to create and maintain high quality green spaces that benefit both the environment and the community.

“The rewards are there to be enjoyed by all Aucklanders. Parks and outdoor green spaces provide endless opportunities to be active or relax, so make sure you explore some of these special sites with friends and family this summer,” says Cr Turner.

Taryn Crewe, Auckland Council’s General Manager for Parks and Community Facilities, credits the hard work and dedication from the council’s parks teams, volunteers and community groups for this year’s recognition.

“I’m incredibly proud and grateful to all those who have played a part in achieving eight Green Flags this year. The parks, cemeteries and maunga that have been recognised are standout examples of park management done particularly well.

“We are lucky to have 4000 parks in Auckland. There’s one in every neighbourhood and 28 outstanding regional parks. Each one of these helps make our region a great place to live and provides an important role in supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of our communities,” Ms Crewe says.

Auckland’s award-winning Green Flag parks this year include:

Ātiu Creek Regional Park

Ātiu Creek Regional Park sits on the Okahukura (Taporapora) Peninsula to the eastern side of Kaipara Harbour. At 843 hectares, it is one of Auckland’s largest regional parks and the largest working farm. Green Flag judges noted that facilities are well maintained, with rangers who are willing to help. More than a third of the park is covered by mature and regenerating native forest, featuring tracks from 1-8kms long to explore on foot, mountain bike or horses. There is also a community-run plant nursery, and bookable accommodation for those that want to stay a bit longer.

The network of trails at Ātiu Creek Regional Park offer panoramic views of the Oruawharo River and Kaipara Harbour.

Hunua Ranges Regional Park – Western section of the park

Judges considered this site “a magnificent location with very dedicated and devoted staff working hard to present a superb destination park while ensuring the ongoing protection of some of its truly unique features”. Good information and procedures relating to Kauri dieback prevention were noted, along with strong community involvement in planting days and pest control programmes.

A forest walk in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park.

Arataki: Wāitakere Ranges Regional Park

The visitor centre at Arataki on Scenic Drive was assessed in August during an anonymous site visit by Green Flag judges. The centre and staff both received high praise as a well-presented and welcoming site, worthy of both a Green Flag for the second consecutive year and for its reputation as a highly-valued community asset. This recognition comes not long after centre was forced to close in 2023 due to surrounding storm damage.

A scenic bush walk near the Arataki Visitor Centre.

Omana Regional Park

Located in Maraetai, Omana Regional Park is considered an ideal family park with a shell beach offering safe swimming at high tide, shady pōhutukawa, walks to farmland and an intriguing pā site. Judges noted the well-managed accessways and provision of a playground, well-placed and informative signage and a range of tracks for all abilities. It was clean, well-maintained and a popular destination.

Omana Regional Park’s playground is one of its many family-friendly attractions.

Wainoni Park

Greenhithe’s much loved local park has been recognised for its impressive arched metalwork entrance, cleanliness, a sense of safety and volunteer input. “The park seems well managed through the teamwork of the council staff, contractors, and the fantastic Friends of Wainoni Park volunteer group. It’s so great to see such a passionate and well-organised group taking the lead here,” judges commented. Wainoni Park features a playground, water play area, cricket nets and pitches, sports fields, picnic tables and walking paths, as well as a resident pony club. 

Wainoni Park provides a range of sport, relaxation and recreation options.

Waikumete Cemetery

Green Flag judges consider Waikumete Cemetery a beautiful, well-presented and well-managed open space that Aucklanders, cemetery associations, and the council can be proud of. The site provides a connection to the past and features walks with views of the city as well as remnant ecological spaces. Its spaces are well used and cared for by the community. “The pride and intrinsic care that goes into this space is apparent in the way it is presented. The site deserves to be acknowledged for its history, respected for its present state, and celebrated into the future.”

An ANZAC day ceremony takes place at dawn at Waikumete Cemetery.

North Shore Memorial Park (cemetery)

Located in Schnapper Rock, North Shore Memorial Park has received its third consecutive Green Flag this year. It is set in beautifully-landscaped grounds with rolling grassy slopes leading to picturesque Lucas Creek. Special areas of the cemetery have been established for different burial, cremation and memorial needs, and the staff on site aim to ensure a high-quality experience for all visitors.

North Shore Memorial Park provides a sanctuary for many visitors.

Maungawhau / Mt Eden 

Maungawhau/ Mt Eden has received its second consecutive Green Flag award this year in recognition of its local and national significance. Managed by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority, judges considered the landmark maunga to be a fascinating site, with informative signage and a well-used summit boardwalk extension to protect it. They acknowledged the challenges tour buses presented for traffic management and parking, as well as incredibly high visitor numbers. A high overall level of maintenance has been achieved despite these pressures.

Maungawhau / Mt Eden’s award-winning boardwalk.

• Green Flag Awards are given out each year and winners must re-apply to renew their Green Flag status.

• Find out more about the scheme at the Green Flag Award website.

Source: Auckland Council

Orchids at a cemetery?

Not the first place you’d think to look!

Cemeteries are generally thought of as solemn resting places, but at Waikumete Cemetery in west Auckland, between the headstones is a thriving world of beautiful native orchids.

The cemetery, owned and maintained by Auckland Council, is a gumland habitat, known for its low-fertility soil and challenging growing conditions, any yet it has curiously still proven to be a unique sanctuary for these delicate plants.

Waitakere Ranges Local Board Chair Greg Presland says the 138-year-old historic site is a cornerstone facility in an area of national significance. Not only is it the largest cemetery in the country, being the final resting place for over 70,000 people, but it is also one of the largest public parks in the Auckland region. 

“Nestled at the base of the Waitākere Ranges, it is a place of beauty, tranquility and rich history that is enjoyed by many visitors. The beautiful native orchids are a unique attraction that add to the cemetery as a place of reflection and reverence,” Presland adds.

Auckland Council’s Senior Regional Advisor (Flora) Emma Simpkins says the grounds are not just a resting place for people—they are a haven for some of the most threatened and quirkiest orchids around.

“There are about 25 species of native orchids here, and something is usually flowering between August and January.

“Orchids are fascinating—they’re one of the largest plant families globally, with 28,000 species. Each one has unique strategies for luring pollinators, from mimicking insects to releasing specific scents; it’s like a botanical masquerade ball,” explains Emma.

The Waikumete gumland habitat and its inhabitants are critically endangered, making conservation efforts vital.

“Weed management is key,” Emma emphasises.

“Exotic plants love open spaces like this, but they can outcompete native species like the orchids if left unchecked. It’s all about maintaining balance to protect these precious ecosystems.”

The juxtaposition of vibrant natural life thriving among the weathered gravestones highlights the dual role Waikumete plays as a place of remembrance and a haven for biodiversity.

“Who knew a cemetery could have so much life?” Emma says.

“It’s like nature’s way of reminding us, there’s always something blooming, even in unexpected places.”

Waikumete Cemetery’s orchids are a testament to the resilience of native species and the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Orchids grow in specific conditions and have unique relationships with their habitat, so they should never be removed from the wild.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the site responsibly, discovering the unique beauty of this sanctuary while respecting its environmental, cultural and historical significance.

Waikumete Cemetery was recently awarded a coveted and internationally recognised Green Flag award, a testament to the quality of the cemetery as an accessible and highly maintained green space, which judges said was a credit to Aucklanders and the council.

Source: Auckland Council

Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board workshops will be open digitally to the public from December.

A number of Tāmaki Makaurau’s 21 boards already hold open workshops, with Maungakiekie-Tāmaki next to welcome the public to view these workshops online.

The workshops are non-decision-making meetings, that cover oversight and delivery of projects in their work programme, such as updates on events, funding, and asset renewals.

Chair Maria Meredith says the move to open the workshops follows the Ombudsman’s Open for Business report – recommending an open-by-default approach to workshops.

“From December our workshops will be available to be viewed online for members of the public, this will provide more context and clarity around the decisions that we make.

“Open workshops also help paint a wider picture of how local board and local government operates, and how our local board members receive information from the wide range of partners, stakeholders and organisations we work with.”

Any closed items will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

Workshops for Auckland Council’s Governing Body – the mayor and councillors – are also being made open to the public by recording and uploading video to council’s website.

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Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council has approved $260,000 from a total funding pool of $372,451 to support 11 community-led initiatives addressing climate change projects from sustainable water infrastructure to increasing access to bikes.

This Auckland Climate Grant programme, established in 2021, is part of Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan and is funded through the Long-term Plan 2024-2034 by the climate investment package and general rates.

The grant is designed to support community-led climate action and focuses on projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, build resilience to climate impacts, and support Māori-led climate responses.

This year’s recipients were selected from a pool of 42 applications requesting more than $1.6 million.

Successful projects span critical areas, including transport, energy, food systems, and Māori-led initiatives, with funding allocations ranging from $10,000 to $40,000.

Deputy Chair of the Community Committee Councillor Julie Fairey commended the community’s commitment to climate action.

“The Auckland Climate Grant scheme supports our communities as they take meaningful local action for our climate.

“This year’s recipients highlight the creativity and collaboration we need to effectively reduce emissions, while we also increase resilience across Tāmaki Makaurau.

“The council’s support for these projects not only empowers Aucklanders to work on our climate challenges, it helps us all to build a fairer future across our region,” says Councillor Fairey.

The grant programme aligns with Auckland Council’s commitment to prioritising Māori-led projects, with three of the 11 funded initiatives directly led by Māori organisations. These projects integrate Te Ao Māori principles and actively support Māori communities in leading climate solutions.

Notably, projects from Whenua Warrior and Gardens4Health received co-funding from both the Auckland Climate Grant and storm response budgets, reflecting their alignment with council goals for climate resilience and recovery.

Auckland Council will allocate the remaining $112,451 in the grant budget through upcoming response funding rounds, ensuring continued support for impactful community initiatives.

The Auckland Climate Grant plays a vital role in removing barriers and supporting grassroots efforts to combat climate change and build resilience, reaffirming the council’s commitment to Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri and the well-being of future generations.

For more information on the Auckland Climate Grant and eligibility criteria, click here

Organisations and community groups funded:
Grey Lynn 2030 Transition Community Trust – $30,000
YMCA North Incorporated – $40,000
Tahuna Paa Marae Trust – $25,000
Whenua Warrior Charitable Trust – $10,000
Time to Thrive to Stay Alive Charitable Trust – $30,000
Socially Good Adventures Ltd  – $40,000
Gardens4Health – $10,000
Etu Rakau – $15,000
Wednesday Challenge HQ Ltd – $30,000
Tāmaki College – $15,000
Youth Climate Collective Limited – $15,000

Source: Auckland Council

Fanshawe Street, once notorious as Auckland’s most congested road, has undergone a major transformation through the use of smart technology.

Auckland Transport (AT) introduced a 24-hour bus lane and smart traffic lights at the Halsey Street intersection in the city centre, along with pedestrian detection technology that helps traffic flow by cancelling crossing requests if pedestrians are not present.

These improvements allow the bus lane to carry up to 5,000 people per hour, compared to just 2,000 in adjacent general traffic lanes.

Waitematā Local Board chair Genevieve Sage says, “Fanshawe Street is a key route in the heart of our city. These advancements ensure Aucklanders can commute more efficiently, reduce reliance on vehicles, and experience a smoother journey as they navigate the city centre. We’re prioritsing solutions that make a difference now while preparing for the future.”

AT’s smart traffic lights also makes sure that lights are green where it is most needed, allowing vehicles and buses to pass through the intersection more efficiently.

“With smart adjustments, we’ve turned Fanshawe Street into a prime example of how Auckland can move more people using existing infrastructure. Now, the volume of bus passengers surpasses the cars on all lanes on Nelson Street,” said AT’s Road Network Optimisation Manager Chris Martin.

This is part of a wider programme of new technology and improvements Auckland Transport, and the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi are implementing to help our existing roads keep up with the tens of thousands of extra vehicles being added to the roads each year.

Source: Auckland Council

In West Auckland, Te Atatū Road has seen a 20% increase in morning traffic volumes this past year. To address this, Auckland Transport (AT) introduced T2 lanes earlier this year, designed to expedite journeys for buses and carpoolers. This change has reduced bus travel times by nearly 48%, making a notable difference for commuters on all modes of transport.

Henderson-Massey Local Board Chair Chris Carter commends AT’s proactive approach, saying, “it is fantastic to see that the Te Atatū T2 lane and improved bus services are well exceeding expected targets and are helping Westies to get around more efficiently.”

Henderson Massey Local Board transport leads Brooke Loader and Dan Collins also support these changes, noting that

“Te Atatū Road is crucial for residents in West Auckland and these innovative changes are seeing 5 million fewer car trips on our roads annually. This is the sort of progress we need to be making to meet our climate goals and to unlock West Auckland’s potential.”

Chris Martin from AT highlights the positive impact of this initiative despite initial opposition, “We’re glad the results now speak for themselves, and all modes of transport have benefitted from this initiative. AT recently improved the West and Northwest bus services, so having T2 lanes on this route really capitalises on that to get this part of the city moving faster.”

This is part of a wider programme of new technology and improvements Auckland Transport, and the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi are implementing to help our existing roads keep up with the tens of thousands of extra vehicles being added to the roads each year.

Source: Auckland Council

Waiheke is known for its world-class beaches, vineyards and adventure tourism but, long a haven of some of Aotearoa’s most talented artists and artisans, this little piece of paradise has plenty of budget-friendly options for visitors looking to explore the art and culture of this unique spot. 

Waiheke Community Art gallery

This gorgeous space displays the work of leading contemporary artists from across Aotearoa while showcasing the unique vision of Waiheke artists and artisans. The gallery shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of handcrafted artworks, making it an ideal spot to pick up a unique treasure or keepsake for you or a friend.

Waiheke Musical Museum

History and music come alive at Aotearoa’s only interactive musical museum. This place is truly special and could only exist on Waiheke. Take a tour with dedicated volunteers as they play rare antique instruments, immersing you in the history of this one-of-a-kind collection.

Artworks Theatre

The centre of performing arts on the island, Artworks covers everything from local improv troupes, community classes and short play festivals to hosting international musical artists and festivals. There’s always something cool happening in this spot. Make sure to check out their Creative Sundays series this February.

Pride Picnic 2021. Courtesy Peter Rees Photography.

Waiheke Museum and Heritage Village

This volunteer-run museum tells the story of Waiheke’s colonial past through a unique collection of items donated over decades. The past truly comes to life when visiting one of the three relocated historical homes near the museum space, completely kitted out to transport you back to the Aotearoa of old. Buckets of charm for the whole family with plenty to keep historians happy as well.

Antiques in the Waiheke Museum and Heritage Village.

Catherine Mitchell Arts Centre

The home of community arts on Waiheke Island since 1952, this much-loved centre offers mentored pottery classes, spinning and weaving groups, life drawing and much more in a warm, friendly space. A treat for boffins and beginners alike to create art, craft, friendship and community. 

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Source: Auckland Council

Communities are the heart and soul of Tāmaki Makaurau and Auckland Council is proud to do its bit in supporting community initiatives. That’s why Ngā Hapori Momoho / Thriving Communities grants opened on 25 November 2024, with a pool of $295,000 available to support community-led projects that help build inclusive and vibrant communities.

Councillor Julie Fairey, Deputy Chair of Auckland Council’s Community Committee says she encourages organisations who want to make a real difference to their community, to apply for this grant.

“We want to support a future where communities can work together and take action on the things they care about.

“These grants are for regionally significant groups, services, events and activities that will benefit residents across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

“The grants focus on increasing the ability for Aucklanders to participate fully in our city, by increasing whanau and community financial security, improving health outcomes, and growing community and intercultural connection. We want all to be able to thrive and have a sense of belonging.

“The fund will invest in activities that honour the council’s obligation to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and we really encourage applications for community led-projects that will benefit Māori.”

Grants of up to $30,000 are available for projects that help support thriving communities, with applications open until Friday 31 January 2025.

In April 2024 the last funding round was awarded to 13 organisations. These included a transformative music therapy programme, a community connection programme for older Aucklanders with dementia or disability, and an agency that aims to increase inclusive volunteering opportunities.

Find out more

The full eligibility criteria and funding priorities are explained in Ngā Hapori Momoho / Thriving Communities Grants Guidelines, available on the Auckland Council website.

Key dates

Applications are open from 25 November 2024 until 31 January 2025.

Funding decisions will be announced in May 2025.

Ngā Hapori Momoho / Thriving Communities Strategy 2023-2024 document is available on the Auckland Council website.