DOWNTOWN FRAMEWORK SEPTEMBER 2014 - AUCKLAND COUNCIL
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DOWNTOWN
FRAMEWORK
September
2014
working draft
draft CITY CENTRE INTEGRATION
Transforming Auckland’s city centre
3
Contents
part 01 part 04
Introduction to future framework..............................................................43
the downtown framework............................................5 DOWNTOWN framework:...............................................................................47
introduction...............................................................................................................7 queen street spine
Scope of the framework..........................................................................9 & DOWNTOWN HUB:...............................................................................................50
downtown projects........................................................................................13 downtown west
& ferry basin......................................................................................................... 58
part 02 britomart precinct
Challenges and Principles........................................17 & admiralty basin........................................................................................... 64
the challenges....................................................................................................18 central wharves.............................................................................................70
dynamics OF DOWNTOWN...............................................................................21
pRINCIPLES...................................................................................................................22 part 05
delivery and next steps............................................. 77
organising ideas............................................................................................... 25
GLOSSARY............................................................................................80
part 03
understanding
the key themes.......................................................................27
development context................................................................................29
public life.................................................................................................................30
multi-modal network.................................................................................32
PARKS, SQUARES & wharves................................................................. 35
Telling our Stories......................................................................................39
hERITAGE ..................................................................................................................... 40
ENVIRONMENT/ SUSTAINABILITY ............................................................41
draft
draft
5
part 01
Introduction
to the downtown
framework
draft
te pai me te whai
draft
rawa o tamaki
the beauty and wealth of Tamaki
7
introduction Its harbour edge setting, With this potential to do The Downtown Framework
Auckland’s thriving businesses, beautiful so much comes the need is being co-ordinated by
Downtown has outlooks, the hub of transport
networks and its role as the
to balance the different
priorities and opportunities.
Auckland Council’s City Centre
Integration team. It provides the
the potential focal point of major new public Public space, retail, transport, context for individual projects
to be one of and private investments make
it arguably the most exciting
business development, places
to promenade and hang out,
based on the council’s strategic
direction. It is non-statutory.
the world’s square kilometre in New restaurants, cafes, events, It is a living document that
most stunning Zealand right now. It is an
opportunity to create a unique
tourism, pedestrian flows and
vehicle movements can all
will continue to evolve over
time responding to new
and vibrant waterfront destination, drawing jostle for space. opportunities to fulfil the
city centre workers, visitors, students and
shoppers. It also holds the key
Coordination is essential. All the
potential of downtown.
waterfronts. to igniting Auckland’s economy
projects, big and small, rely on
so many other projects - either
and enabling it to become a
for timing, feasibility or for
truly globally competitive city.
maximising the impact they
The transformation of can have.
downtown must continue
And there is a great deal that
the successful achievements
needs to be done. The area’s
of recent years at Britomart,
harbourside setting already
Wynyard Quarter and the city
makes it highly attractive for
centre shared spaces. These
corporates, hospitality and
destinations are breathing new
tourism. But large blocks and
life into Auckland’s city centre
streets that separate the city
and waterfront and bringing
from its waterfront make
much greater concentrations of
downtown a less enjoyable
activity and public life.
place to meet or interact.
The area’s incredibly rich
history, heritage and cultural
associations need to be more
overtly celebrated.
draft
AuCKlAND’S
VISION
Creating the world’s most liveable city
AuCKlAND plAN lOCAl bOARD plAN
3-Year plans of 21 Local
30-year vision and strategy for Auckland Boards
uNITARY plAN plACE-bASED STRATEGIES lONG-TERM
plANS plAN
lOCAl bOARD
Policies and rules Spatial Plans for Examples: Council’s 10-year AGREEMENT
to implement the geographic areas Regional Land plan and budget
Auckland Plan e.g. Local area Transport Annual budgets of 21 Local
plans, City Centre Plan, Economic Boards
Masterplan, and Development
Waterfront Plan Strategy, Major
Events Strategy,
Visitor Plan
WYNYARD lEARNING VICTORIA AOTEA
DOWNTOWN
quARTER quARTER quARTER quARTER
IMplEMENTATION
9
Scope of the
framework
The Auckland Plan’s vision to create the world’s most liveable city is available understanding of how the projects will work together
supported by the strategies and place-based plans that set out how to deliver the downtown we want, and highlighting key
to deliver it, as well as the Unitary Plan, which sets out the planning challenges and inter-dependencies to realise the vision.
rules that are needed to shape what gets built and where.
Project information will continue to evolve over time as option
For the city centre, the City Centre Masterplan, Waterfront Plan, testing is undertaken, increasing levels of investigation are
Regional Land Transport Plan, Economic Development Strategy and progressed and new projects are considered. Along the way this will
Auckland Unitary Plan are referenced for decision-making. There create new challenges and opportunities to debate.
are also specific supporting studies, such as the City East West
The Framework has a 10 year focus but a 30 year outlook in terms
Transport Study (CEWT Study).
of longer term changes that may need to be considered within the
This Downtown Framework will be the first of several such context of future planning and change over the next decade.
documents covering specific parts of the city centre. The
Framework outlines these different projects planned for downtown.
Many of these are highly complex and are at different stages of Frameworks are living documents and
development. It does not seek to answer all the challenges that lie
ahead, instead it aims to guide discussions and decision-making on will continue to evolve. They bring
those issues. It does this by: together vision, thinking and projects
1. Setting out the principles and organising ideas to help guide from across Auckland Council and
project delivery, future investment and development decisions.
2. Combining the latest information, and demonstrating the best
Council-controlled organisations.
Framework Area
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What does the downtown framework do?
11
Strategic downtown project
direction framework Delivery
Vision, Strategy, bridges between delivering
and plans strategic direction & change on
consulted on and
project delivery the ground
• Multiple project workstreams
adopted / proposed Integration
• Option testing
Integrates the vision, thinking and projects across
These include: the Council family. • Detailed investigations
• The Auckland Plan • Detailed design
• The City Centre Masterplan Distills the vision • Construction and delivery
Distills the strategic direction for the
• The Waterfront Plan • Public consultation and stakeholder
downtown area.
• The Proposed Unitary Plan engagement
• Regional Land Transport Plan setting the scene
• Economic Development Strategy Provides the strategic, spatial and timing context for
projects and decision-making.
• Major Events Strategy
• Visitor Plan
Provides the Lens
The Framework tests projects against wider
aspirations through common principles and
organising ideas.
one stop shop
Home for key information to link initiatives and
projects, and to inform decisions (both from the
Council family and development community).
The evolving picture
Frameworks are living documents that capture the
latest project information as they go through option
testing and detailed investigation, and focus the
debate on the current issues needing resolution.
implementation plan
Lays out the flow of projects in the coming years.3
12
16
8
11
4
5
9
13 14 15 5
2 5 10
7
6
113
downtown projects
this is a time of great change for downtown. many significant projects ARE
proposed that cannot be considered in isolation. collectively these have
the potential to transform the face of the city.
key current projects key future projects
1 City Rail Link Enabling Package 13 Hobson Street Flyover Removal
2 Lower Queen Street Downtown Carpark
14 Redevelopment
3 Queens Wharf 15 Federal Street Laneway Extension
Quay Street and Central Wharves & Breastworks
4 Harbour Edge projects 16 opportunities (POAL)
Downtown Bus Interchange (New
5 Network Optimisation)
6 Fanshawe Street Urban Busway
7 Customs Street Upgrade
8 Ferry Basin Redevelopment
Downtown Shopping Centre
9 block redevelopment
(Precinct Properties NZ Ltd)
Beach Road Cycleway
10 (Stage 2)
11 Seawall Upgrade
12 Central Wharves Strategykey DOWNTOWN PROJECTS
1. City Rail Link
Enabling Package
The City Rail Link (CRL) will extend
2. lower
queen street
The proposed relocation of the bus
4. Quay
Street
The transformation of Quay Street into
Auckland’s passenger rail system past interchange from Lower Queen Street Auckland’s premier waterfront boulevard
Britomart to connect to the existing provides a significant opportunity for will enhance the north south links from
regional rail network at Mt Eden Station. Lower Queen Street to become a new the city to the water as well as creating a
The enabling works package is proposed public square or “Queens Square”. grand east-west urban axis that will connect
to construct the tunnel sections from Queens Square will be able to reflect the various parts of the wider waterfront. It is
Britomart Station in conjunction with location’s significance as a major civic the city centre’s welcome mat for thousands
the redevelopment of the Downtown moment outside Britomart Station and a of people on a daily basis and will become a
Shopping Centre up Albert Street beyond pivotal point where Queen Street and the destination and magnet for visitors as part of
Customs Street. The completion of this CBD Engine Room meet the waterfront. our wider waterfront offer.
work will allow other significant key
projects to be completed in the area and
3. Queens
avoid future disruption.
Wharf
Queens Wharf was opened to public access
as ‘the People’s Wharf’ in 2010. The next
5. Downtown Bus
Interchange
A new Downtown Bus Interchange is
stage of revitalisation of the wharf is in the proposed as part of the roll out of the
early stages of planning. Future plans for New Network for public transport which
the wharf will deliver significant new public is due to commence from 2016. Bus stops
space as well as taking account of future will be divided into two major zones
ferry and cruise operations. joined by an east-west link through the
Downtown Shopping Centre and Britomart
Transport Centre. Northern and western
services will commence from Lower Albert
Street, fronted by Precinct Properties’
new development and southern and
eastern services will commence from
a new facility on the Commerce Street
frontage of Britomart Transport Centre.
This configuration enables a potential new
civic public space on Lower Queen Street
and provides more easily understood bus
draft departure points.15
6. Fanshawe Street
8. ferry basin extends the Grafton Gully cycleway to
meet the waterfront. This will become one
Urban Busway redevelopment of the key off-road cycleways that will
enter the city centre and will be mirrored
Fanshawe Street is one of Auckland’s Future redevelopment of the existing on the western side of the city along the
most significant public transport corridors. ferry terminal is planned to accommodate old Nelson Street off-ramp and Nelson
Currently over two thirds of people travelling forecast growth in ferry services; a key Street. The Beach Road cycleway will link
in the AM peak on Fanshawe Street are on component in growing Auckland’s public with wider connections all the way from the
buses. The Fanshawe Street upgrade will see transport network. The ferry terminal foothills of the Waitakere Ranges, to the
the extension of the northern busway into and infrastructure will be integrated with city centre, and along the waterfront as far
the city centre while also improving north- surrounding projects and activities including as Saint Heliers.
south pedestrian crossing opportunities to Quay Street, Queens Wharf and the
help realise the harbour stitch in the western growing cruise industry.
11. Seawall
waterfront precincts.
7. Customs Street
Upgrade
9. Downtown
Shopping Centre
block Redevelopment
Upgrade
The existing seawall between Princes
Wharf and Marsden Wharf needs
upgrading to meet seismic requirements.
Customs Street has renewed importance This is a critical piece of infrastructure.
in the city as a busy two-sided city street Precinct Properties Ltd is in discussion
Several adjacent projects are dependent on
as well as a major east-west movement with the Council on a comprehensive
the upgrade including Quay Street and the
corridor. The upgrade of Customs Street redevelopment of the block bounded by
Ferry Basin Redevelopment.
will deliver reliability improvements for Customs, Lower Queen, Quay and Lower
both buses and general traffic to strengthen Albert Streets. The redevelopment of the
12.
existing centre would allow a new multi-level
its role as a key connection across the city
centre, to be delivered in conjunction with street based retail centre to be constructed Central
the Fanshawe Street upgrade. To realise the together with a new office tower. It is
proposed to include the construction of the
Wharves Strategy
harbour stitches it must also improve the
north-south pedestrian crossing experience, relevant section of the CRL tunnels through This strategy will address competing
declutter the footpath, and provide an this site at the same time. demands on the water space, responding
overall uplift in streetscape quality. to growing demand and operational
requirements for ferry, cruise and port
10. BEACH ROAD
CYCLEWAY
The Beach Road cycleway (Stage 1
activities. Importantly this will also need
to consider how these operations affect
how we can use wharf spaces (function,
development and activities) and aspirations
completed in early September 2014)
for the harbour’s edge.
draft17
part 02
Challenges
and Principlesthe challenges
unlocking the vision
1. Realising our aspirations
for the public realm and public transport
Future plans for public realm, place-making and public transport need to be balanced and
aligned to support each other within a concentrated area and finite space.
2. Retaining
appropriate access
Within the downtown area appropriate access needs to be maintained for servicing and
functional requirements without adversely affecting the public realm ambitions and public
transport plans.
3. Maximising
value
With considerable planned investment from the public and private sector, there is a strong
incentive to maximise value through a co-ordinated and integrated approach to public and
private sector projects to achieve the best overall outcome.19
delivering the vision
4. working through complex
Inter-dependencies
Inter-dependencies between projects in the area are extensive and changes in one aspect or
area can result in compounding effects elsewhere which are not obvious.
5. Timing
of works
Significant construction is required in order to achieve the desired outcomes. Disruption will
need to be managed and mitigated where possible. The sequence and timing of respective
projects will determine the extent and duration of disruption and when Auckland can start
to reap the planned benefits.
6. Efficiency
of spend
Limited resources need to be carefully managed in order to deliver maximum benefit.1 2 3
4
6 7
5 821
dynamics
OF DOWNTOWN
Each part of the Downtown area has
multiple live projects and future
aspirations that will transform downtown.
1. Rethinking ferry and cruise ship berthing options, and how
these interface with desired public space outcomes to open
up more of the harbour’s edge for people to enjoy.
5. Significant redevelopment potential exists on and
around the western most block of downtown
including a significant opportunity in the Downtown Carpark.
2.
This could see the creation of a new finer grain block structure,
redevelopment of new and existing buildings, and full
On-going staged development of Queens Wharf, transformation of the surrounding streets. Key to this is the future
‘the People’s Wharf’. Providing new public realm, and removal of the Hobson Street flyover, and reconfiguration of
complementary activities. Sturdee and Fanshawe Streets to realise new public spaces as well as
3.
improved access.
6.
Working with Ports of Auckland to co-ordinate
future cruise berthing options with future Central block redevelopment. Precinct Properties’
public access, public space, development opportunities comprehensive planned redevelopment of the Downtown
and port operations. Shopping Centre block and how this relates to street level and public
realm. Construction of the City Rail Link and reconfiguring bus
4.
movements around the block to improve public realm opportunities,
development potential, and public transport network resilience.
Establishing a welcome mat and celebrated harbour
7.
edge. Transformation of Quay Street, working with the
Ports of Auckland to open the red fence, and redevelopment and Ongoing development of the celebrated Britomart
new water edge public spaces. precinct. Redesigned street networks that match the
quality and activities alongside.
8. Improving east-west movement reliability for buses
and traffic. Improve north-south pedestrian crossing
experience and overall uplift in quality of a busy two-sided
city street.pRINCIPLES
The following principles will be used to help assess individual projects
and proposals, thereby guiding project delivery and future investment and
development decisions.
1. RECONNECT THE CITY
TO THE WATERFRONT
Reconnect the city centre to the Waitematā Harbour through a
3. IMPROVE access
to DOWNTOWN
Improve the rail, bus and ferry networks and how they interconnect
new world class waterfront promenade, new and upgraded streets, at the city’s main public transport hub. Improve and encourage
laneways and public spaces that improve access and permeability. walking and cycling, while maintaining appropriate access for
vehicles including; property access, deliveries and taxis.
2. CREATE ACTIVE,
PEOPLE-FOCUSED PLACES
Create a range of attractive, people-focused places with their own
4. SUPPORT And grow a
THRIVING ECONOMY
character: from small intimate areas, through to vibrant streets Enable new development opportunities by working closely with
and to larger spaces that can accommodate major events and the private sector to realise investment in the downtown area
gatherings; that increase the range of both day and night-time acknowledging its important location in the city centre. This
activities. will facilitate an innovative, well connected, business friendly
competitive Auckland which is supported by public investment in
high quality public spaces and infrastructure.23
5. ENSURE QUALITY BUILDINGS
FROM THE GROUND UP
Ensure new and redeveloped buildings enrich the public realm
7. Celebrate mana whenua and
Cultural Richness
Celebrate the cultural richness of Auckland, in particular the mana
by providing a human scale that contributes to more vibrant and whenua histories and connection with the land. Recognise the
active streets, laneways and public spaces. The height and form of importance of its role as Auckland’s ‘waharoa’ or welcome gateway.
buildings should acknowledge the waterfront location and enhance Consider projects alongside Council’s Te Aranga design principles.
the skyline of the city.
6. Strengthen the
Maritime Character
8. ENHANCE SUSTAINABILITY
AND the environment
Improve the environmental quality, in particular improving air
Celebrate a vibrant working waterfront and the maritime heritage quality and the water quality of the Waitematā Harbour. Build
of the downtown area. Strengthen the relationship of the resilience through integrated and innovative approaches, conserve
waterfront location through design of the built environment. Retain resources, minimise environmental impacts, reduce waste, build
and strengthen key views and connection to and from the harbour, sustainably and respond to climate change.
maunga and other landmarks.Auckland’s
downtown area occupies
a pivotal position on the
waterfront where Queen
Street meets Quay Street.
Queen Street remains the
city centre masterplan most important street in
the city. It is the pedestrian
structuring elements
backbone and centre of
retail activity.
More recently Quay
Street has emerged as
an important structuring
element shaping the
development of the city’s
waterfront.
The harbour stitches
support these two key
axes. The stitches are about
enabling us to easily move
between the heart of the
city and the harbour’s
Harbour edge edge. Realising the stitches
will require improvements
Engine room to the public realm of
all of the north-south
streets through the
downtown area, as well
as transforming the major
queen street
movement barriers of
Albert Customs and Quay Streets.
Victoria Park
New laneway connections
are an important supporting
Park victoria street move that will create a finer
grain of development on the
blocks to the west of Queen
aotea quarter Street. New laneways in
these blocks can add a
greater depth of offering
and vibrancy of public life
to match that happening in
City Centre Britomart and the Wynyard
Quarter.
draft City fringe25
organising
Building on the City Centre Masterplan,
Auckland’s Downtown will look to
strengthen its locational advantage
ideas as the most pivotal point in the city
centre where Queen Street meets the
harbour’s edge.
QUEENS
WHARF
FRONT FACE OF THE CITY
QUEEN
STREET
welcome
queen street spine Waterfront Axis mat
QUAY STREET QUAY STREET
CITY FACE OF THE CITY
ONT CUSTOMS STREET
CUSTOMS STREET
complementary
FRONT FACE OF THE CITY Harbour Stitches Downtown
corridors & laneway circuit Hub
draft27
part 03
understanding
the key themesIntroduction to
key themes
This section sets out This additional information is not intended
to capture all considerations for the
further detail on some future. It is drawn from and reflects the
of the key themes that clear vision and strategic direction set by
key documents such as the City Centre
relate to the principles Masterplan, Waterfront Plan, the Public
in Part 02 and desired Transport Network Plan, City East West
Transport Study, Economic Development
future outcomes in Strategy and Major Events Strategy, and
Part 04. how they relate to the downtown area.29
development
context
The majority of the Downtown is home to most of the major
banking, accounting, insurance and ICT
Just three parties - Auckland Council,
Cooper and Co (Britomart Precinct), and
development opportunity companies in New Zealand. It is where Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited,
is controlled by just they choose to base their head offices.
The recent arrival of major Chinese retail
control the majority of the land in the
downtown blocks between Britomart Place
three parties: Auckland banks and global retail brands on the lower and Lower Hobson Street.
Council, Cooper and blocks of Queen Street are indicative of
the growing international attractiveness of
This presents a unique opportunity for
Co (Britomart Precinct), Auckland’s downtown area. These trends are
comprehensive redevelopment not often
achievable in existing heavily developed
and Precinct Properties expected to continue to underpin significant
development opportunities now and in the
areas.
New Zealand Limited. future. The Council’s commitment to developing
public spaces, upgrading the waterfront, and
The ability to locate in close proximity to an
transport infrastructure provides significant
integrated public transport hub with rail, bus
scope for private sector investment to
and ferry services that extend right across
leverage off public sector investment. These
Auckland is a unique selling point for this
opportunities exist on existing commercial
part of the city centre. The central wharves
sites, in and around changing infrastructure,
are the focal point of arrival for an ever
and on the waterfront in the downtown
increasing number of international cruise
core.
ship tourists.
There is much to be gained from working
All of these factors contribute to some of
closely to deliver an integrated approach to
the highest pedestrian footfalls in New
new economic and property development
Zealand, which in itself drives further
opportunities with planned investment in
economic growth and development
public spaces and transport infrastructure.
opportunity, particularly for retail and
hospitality.
QUAY STREET
key
BRITOMART
SQUARE
TAKUTAI
PLACE
HOBSON
Auckland Council
LOWER
PLACE
Precinct Properties
Cooper & Co.
CUSTOMS STREET
QUAY STREET
BRITOMART
working draft
SQUARE
TAKUTAI
PLACE
HOBSON
LOWER
PLACEpublic life Through the Shared Space Programme The City Centre Masterplan identified
Public space is the and redevelopment of adjoining the potential for these streets to
glue that holds the city buildings, retail and hospitality, public
life in the streets is coming alive. The
work together as a laneway circuit.
Collectively, they have the potential
together, the canvas for streets are becoming more unique, to create a more intimate pedestrian
public life. diverse and vibrant with improved
business viability. The ongoing growth
experience through the city centre,
supporting diverse retail, hospitality,
of commercial enterprise coupled entertainment and cultural activities.
with an increase in residential and
The foundation of this circuit is largely
recreational development is seeing
in place through the Fort Street/High
public life return to the streets in a way
Street/ Lorne Street areas, and will be
that has not been seen in decades.
completed with a future extension
In Auckland’s city centre the primary between Aotea Square, Federal Street,
public spaces are its streets and lanes and the waterfront, and 2 new east-
supported by other spaces such as west laneways through the Downtown
parks, squares and the waterfront. West blocks between Lower Hobson
Across downtown however the and the new Queens Square. These
waterfront and wharves form the larger existing and proposed lanes within the
component of public space, while downtown area will complement and
streets and lanes support the activities, contrast the grand and open nature of
interactions and informalities of daily the proposed Quay Street boulevard
life. and wharves along the harbour’s edge,
inviting an intimate and human scaled
environment, rich in life, energy and
buzz.
.
draft31
laneway circuit
new east west lane
te ara tahuhu walking street
st Patrick’s Square
High Street
Street
federal Street
queen
lorne Street
key
laneway
landmark
Aotea squaremulti-modal network
Downtown is a major destination and the network hub for all transport modes,
future investment will allow even greater numbers of people to access it.
Walking RAIL Ferry
Throughout the city centre, pedestrians are The City Rail Link (CRL) will be a Ferries bring in close to 4000 people into
considered the most important mode. The transformational project for the city the city centre in the morning peak period,
future transport network in the downtown centre. Within the downtown area, as well with nearly half of those passengers coming
area is predicated on high quality, well as increasing the number of pedestrians from Devonport and Waiheke Island. It is
connected pedestrian spaces and linkages. interchanging between services and predicted that ferry patronage growth will
Whilst the area will still retain some busy accessing the city centre, the main CRL be relatively modest when compared to
city streets, the greater pedestrian provision implication is the construction impacts on bus and train. This is driven by certain ferry
(more crossings, shorter intersection cycle the staging of public and private sector markets being mature (e.g. Devonport)
times, etc.) and significant increase in public developments (for instance, Lower Queen or captive (e.g. Waiheke) and the limited
space will be transformational in providing Street changes cannot occur until the CRL growth permitted by the Proposed Auckland
improved pedestrian amenity and capacity. tunnelling is completed). Unitary Plan for the inner harbour North
Shore ferry terminals. However, outer
Cycling Bus and coach growth areas show predicted strong growth
in patronage from Hobsonville, West
The high quality people-focused spaces of The New Network for buses will provide a
Harbour, Pine Harbour and to a lesser
the downtown area will naturally make this better, simpler, smarter, more legible bus
extent Half Moon Bay and Gulf Harbour.
a popular location to cycle to and through. system. It is based on a small number of
The Downtown Ferry Terminal is close
Quality cycle routes on Beach Road high quality bus corridors, connecting with
to peak capacity and its redevelopment
and Quay Street will link to Westhaven Britomart, including an urban busway along
is crucial to enable more peak services to
Wynyard Quarter and the popular Tamaki Fanshawe Street. This major reconfiguration
operate. The short-term direction for ferries
Dr, as well as Nelson Street (& Hobson of bus operations will reduce the number
is likely to focus on improved services to
Street) to link to cycle routes further afield. of bus services and also bus stops in the
growth areas, starting with the recently
The general reduction in traffic volumes on area. The regional coaches are relocated
implemented significant boost to the Gulf
some streets, and vehicle speeds in general, from the area, and the Airbus service will
Harbour ferry service, and the bringing of
will help boost the ability to cycle in the need to be reconfigured, as will the City
inner harbour ferry services up to a higher
downtown area. Link bus service. The movement function
level of service, as envisaged in the Regional
on Customs Street will be facilitated by
Public Transport Plan.
removing the need for bus stops. No bus
layover will be provided in the area. Buses
remain vital for the city centre, as analysis
shows a rough doubling in bus demand to
city centre over the next 30 years, even
with CRL in place.33
Traffic Freight Cruise
The ‘down-tuning’ of Quay Street will Freight movements remain important to The cruise sector is an important part of
be supported by improving the reliable the economic efficiency and performance the tourism industry in Auckland and New
movement functions of Customs Street. of the city centre, and service vehicle access Zealand and the sector creates significant
Unnecessary through-traffic will be to central wharves will be retained, along positive impacts on our economy. Auckland
encouraged to use the motorway ring with sufficient vehicle access for deliveries, is able to offer a unique situation to
route. Service vehicle access to central taxis and property access. Heavy freight the cruise industry where cruise ships
wharves will be retained, along with vehicles from the port should not have to are located in the heart of the CBD,
sufficient vehicle access for deliveries, taxis cross the downtown area and can access providing an exceptional experience for
and property access. The CCMP seeks the the motorway network via The Strand. The the passengers and a sense of drama and
removal of the Hobson Street flyover, which Fanshawe Street/ Customs Street/ Beach spectacle on the waterfront.
is likely to only be possible following the Road corridor is an ‘over-dimension’ route.
Auckland is classed as a passenger exchange
significant ‘down-tuning’ of Quay Street
port due to the international air links and
and other major road network changes to
hotel capacity and as a result it is a key
accommodate different traffic patterns.
Light rail cruise hub in the Oceania region. The
Auckland experience can impact a visitor’s
Parking Investigations are continuing into options
for a high-quality transit connection
first and last impression of New Zealand as
In the downtown area, on-street parking a destination.
(possibly light rail) that connects Wynyard
will be primarily for taxis, loading and other New Zealand’s cruise industry has grown
Quarter to the downtown area and beyond.
short-term parking demands. General dramatically since the mid 1990’s from
Whilst not confirmed, it is prudent to
parking should be managed in off-street 27 cruises and 19,400 passengers to over
future-proof for this within the redesign of
parking buildings, with an increased 200,000 and 129 cruises in 2012/13. As the
Quay Street and Lower Queen Street.
emphasis on short-term parking rather than number and size of cruise vessels visiting
longer term (commuter) parking. Auckland grows, the economic benefits to
The CCMP seeks the redevelopment of the regional economy also will grow and the
the downtown parking building in the cruise facilities over time will need further
long term. expansion and the long term location and
use of the water space needs to be carefully
considered to ensure the most benefits are
achieved for all water based modes.working draft
35
PARKS,
SQUARES &
wharves
Public space forms an important
part of the fabric of the city and is
pivotal to celebrating our cultural,
historic and natural heritage.
Dotted throughout the city is a strong network of small public
parks and squares that provide pause points and break out spaces
for people. The spaces offer a stage whereby formal and informal
interaction can occur, inviting conversation, play and recreation
to unfold.
Alongside the city’s streets and lanes, these public spaces
provide a platform for capturing the unique natural, and cultural
character of downtown while reinforcing the importance of
place-making and human scaled development. These include
spaces like Takutai Square, a sunny sheltered space, often used
by people relaxing on bean bags. The name Takutai, meaning
foreshore, references the areas origins as a reclaimed site, while
the adjacent ‘Pipi Beds’ water sculpture reinforces the former
natural and cultural value of the site.
In contrast to the intimacy provided within the smaller parks,
Quay Street and the central wharves are becoming destination
public spaces, magnets where visitors and Aucklanders alike
can enjoy major international, regional and cultural events. The
development of Quay Street into a world class harbour edge will
likewise play a pivotal role in the offering of quality public space,
recreational opportunities, facilities and events that celebrate and
share the unique story of our heritage.
draftmajor place
events activation
The city centre in general and downtown in particular
are gaining in popularity as areas to host major events or Place activation is a key success
leverage events associated with major events occurring
outside the central city area. factor in delivering a revitalised
The growth of the city centre as a vibrant international downtown.
city coupled with the improving city services in and
around the city centre including public transport, It needs to be an integral part of the approach to public
restaurants and accommodation makes hosting an space and development right across the city centre
event in the city centre much more desirable. There is and waterfront.
increasing demand on venue space. Finding venues with Projects such as Quay Street will look to extend and
a large, flat open area for a major event and that requires build upon the highly successful place-making approach
a space for a longer duration (for pack in and pack out employed by Waterfront Auckland at Wynyard Quarter
of a complex set up) is very limited. For example when and elsewhere.
utilising Queens Wharf it can be difficult to have an event
of a longer duration than 5 - 7 days (including pack in A comprehensive programme of place activation
and pack out) as there is increasing demand for this area will support new public life, and, as at Silo Park, give
from the cruise ships as well as other events. Aucklanders the opportunity to engage with and learn
to love new public spaces, especially ones that may
Areas that better cater for events of a larger scale and be developed in locations less well used currently.
complexity and that allow areas to be utilised for a longer The strategy will need consider the future sequencing
duration, will enable Auckland to host more impressive and timing of works and how an early programme
events of international quality. of initiatives can start to deliver better public space
Hosting major events downtown can play a pivotal role opportunities for Aucklanders ahead of more wide-spread
in helping Auckland achieve long term economic and transformation.
social aspirations, with ATEED’s 2013/14 major events
portfolio set to exceed performance targets of $40
million of new money into the economy (GDP impact)
and 95,000 visitor nights.
Major events are already booked for the downtown area
in the city’s calendar in coming years. These add to the
complexity of timing of works and inter-dependencies.
working draft37 working draft
TE RERENGAORAITI /
T K
TANGIHANGA-PUKAEA
NGA-U-WERA Horotiu
TE ROUKAI TE HOROROA
Te Toangaroa
ONEPANEA
TE WHATU Waiariki Stream
TE TARAKARAIHI
Waiatarau WAIHOROTIU
Waiparuru Stream
Waihorotiu
Waikokota Stream Stream
Waikuta Stream
1840 Shoreline mahinga-kai
Tunamau Stream ( Seafood gathering)
historic Streams
eel fishing
pa Site
Te aranga design principles
Mana / Rangatiratanga - Authority; The status of iwi and hapū as mana whenua is recognised and respected
Whakapapa - Names & Naming; mana whenua names are celebrated
Tohu - The wider cultural landscape; Mana whenua significant sites and cultural landmarks are acknowledged
Taiao - The natural environment; The natural environment is protected, restored and / or enhanced
Mauri Tu - Environmental Health; Environmental health of water, land and air is protected, maintained and / or enhanced
Mahi Toi - Creative Expression; Iwi/hapū narratives are captured and expressed creatively and appropriately in the physical environment
Ahi Kāā - The Living Presence; mana whenua are able to rekindle and strengthen their presence within the environment
working draft39
Telling
our Stories
Mana whenua have a strong historical connection with the city Today we need to be better at revealing these associations, but
centre’s harbour edge that continues to the present day, yet there also ensure that mana whenua are fully engaged in the ongoing
are few visible links to connect to this rich heritage. development of our city. Engagement with iwi is an ongoing
conversation through strategies and projects throughout the
Since early Māori settlement, Tāmaki Makaurau was renowned for
Council family.
fishing, shell fish grounds, and sheltered waters of its twin harbours,
as well as easy waka access between coastal settlements and the One of the challenges is for these multiple conversations and
gulf islands. The inherent qualities saw it contested and occupied learnings to be recorded to build an integrated foundation going
by numerous iwi. To this end many iwi have retained historical forward for both iwi and the Council family. This needs to be
associations with the city centre’s waterfront for food gathering, embedded into our approach to projects, into our principles and
permanent and seasonal occupations, and as a hub for trade. Some design, and emerge strongly in our built projects on the ground.
of the key historical associations along the harbour edge area for
Conversations to date with iwi on city centre projects, and
mana whenua include:
particularly in the downtown area have emerging themes which
• The three former bays that defined the shoreline that were include:
used for fishing and shellfish gathering (Waiatarau, Horotiu Bay,
• Reviving historical names and cultural narratives of the area
and Te Toangaroa).
• Artistic and design treatments which bring names and
• Freshwater resources (including eeling) from a number streams
narratives to life
in the city centre area, including Waihorotiu, a significant
stream that followed the course of the Queen Street valley. • Remediating land and water quality
• Several significant Pa sites on the former headlands. • Connection to the natural environments and connection with
Tangaroa
While these sites have disappeared through the development of the
city centre over the past 170 years, their historical significance for • A living presence, a place where mana whenua can gather,
mana whenua remains. welcome visitors, and celebrate their connection to the area
In collaboration with iwi, Council has developed Te Aranga design
principles to help inform and enhance the design and development
of our built environment. These should be used as a tool alongside
ongoing engagement with mana whenua. The full explanation
of the principles can be found on the Auckland Design Manual
website at www.aucklanddesignmanual.co.nz.
working drafthERITAGE
Our heritage is a Downtown has a rich history of natural,
Māori and colonial settlement heritage,
settlements are long gone the associations
and significance of these to Māori are still
legacy to pass on to shaped over the centuries by natural inherent, as are ancestral obligations such
future generations. events as well as people, their needs and
aspirations. Heritage gives Auckland its
as kaitiaki, to maintain and enhance the
mauri of this heritage.
Heritage reinforces our rich texture, a sense of continuity and a
Downtown is also home to Auckland’s first
sense of history and strong basis from which to develop and
grow and directly influences how people
mercantile centre and one of the largest
place, is central to our perceive and use the city as a place to live,
concentrations of heritage buildings in the
city. Landmarks such as the Ferry Building,
well-being, and helps work, play and visit.
the former Chief Post Office, maritime
define what is unique Our natural heritage includes the rich
geological history that underpins the
and industrial heritage of Britomart
Precinct and the Red Gates buffering Quay
and distinctive about Auckland landscape; complex landforms, Street and the Ports of Auckland, each
Auckland. water bodies and volcanic features
developed over the last 140,000 years.
offer identity and contribute to a strong
sense of place. Valuing, investing and
The natural harbour edge, though no empowering stewardship of this heritage
longer readily discernible, stretches is pivotal to the continued success of
across the downtown precinct with downtown as an emerging and vibrant
Quay Street and the flat reclaimed land legacy for the city.
south to Fort and Swanson Streets being
Although unique and irreplaceable,
the former mudflats of the downtown
conservation does not preclude change.
bays. Excavations at Point Britomart
In many respects it is at its best in such a
contributed considerable cliff materials
dynamic and evolving place. Auckland’s
to early reclamation and these geological
heritage must be valued as an opportunity
features underlie the waterfront and lower
and encompass geology, ecology, mana
downtown land today.
whenua sites of significance, archaeology,
Plentiful throughout downtown and architecture and landscapes.
the harbour edge too is heritage of
There are many untold stories about
fundamental importance to tangata
the historic heritage of downtown,
whenua, their culture and traditions. The
poorly understood, underappreciated or
strong historical connection Māori have
inaccessible . The redevelopment offers
with these areas continues to the present
an opportunity to share these stories and
day, yet there are few visible links for the
celebrate the uniqueness of our natural,
public to connect with. While former
cultural and environmental heritage.
bays, headlands, landmarks, streams and41
ENVIRONMENT/
SUSTAINABILITY
Our natural surroundings are unique, we need to continue to evolve innovative
Aucklanders are the home to wildlife in marine, freshwater and responses to water treatment, as far as
guardians of a precious terrestrial ecosystems. The environment
has intrinsic values which are values
possible, before it flows into the harbour.
environment. in their own right, as distinct from the
Advancements in sustainable, integrated
public transport within downtown
The environment is an benefits people obtain from them.
support the city’s contribution to
essential part of our As guardians of our environment, we have
a responsibility to leave it in a better state
reversing the upward trend of emissions
with considerable focus on enhanced
identity, our economy, for future generations. Kaitiakitanga is pedestrian and cycle routes, bus network
and the way we live. the Māori resource management principle
concerning guardianship of our natural
improvements, an extended ferry network
and the City Rail Link.
resources and the city centre is well placed
Opportunities to seek best practice
to give greater depth and authenticity
initiatives within Council and joint
to sustainability principles and the
partnership projects will continue and
kaitiaki concept. It is envisioned that this
in doing so encourage sustainability
authenticity will also provide a marketable
across private development. A considered
edge for the city centre.
approach to materiality, waste reduction,
Initiatives to enhance biodiversity, reduce recycling, energy, water and thermal
waste and future proof high quality built efficiency will form key components
form supports the New Zealand 100% to improve sustainability and positive
Pure brand and reinforces our identity as environmental outcomes.
an environmentally sensitive city. The use
and selection of native vegetation provides
habitat and food source for our native
birds and is central to our uniqueness and
cultural identity.
Improving the water quality of the
Waitematā Harbour is an identified
priority. The heart of the city poses
challenges to water management, such as
intensity of development, impermeable
surfaces, and levels of contaminants (from
traffic and intensive land use), however43
part 04
future
framework45
introduction
to the future framework
In order to help decision-making, this This section divides the downtown area
This section sets out section provides direction on the future into four sub areas for discussion purposes
further detail on the outcomes desired for public space,
movement and development, and how
(Queen Street Spine and Downtown Hub;
Downtown West and Ferry Basin; Britomart
challenges and inter- these could unfold to meet multiple drivers Precinct and Admiralty Basin; and the
dependencies that are and complex issues based on the most
current information available.
Central Wharves).
occurring throughout
the downtown area
across multiple projects
and how these relate a. queen street spine & downtown hub
to future aspirations. It d
B. downtown west & ferry basin
also highlights the most c. britomart precinct & admiralty basin
pressing issues that b A c
need resolution d. central wharves
and decisions on in the
near future.captain cook wharf
quay street waterfront boulevard
customs street
B
BB
B
Queen Street spine (Queen Street >
key Lower Queen Street > Queens Wharf) Existing laneway connections Major future development opportunities
North - South Harbour Stitches (public realm)
Future potential laneway
connections
Quay Street waterfront boulevard
and harbour’s edge public spaces Future potential through site link
Other waterfront public space
Underground
B rail (Post-CRL)
Fanshawe Street /Customs Street /Beach Road47
DOWNTOWN framework:
Public Space & Development
This page provides The transformation of downtown must
continue the successful achievements
The Laneway Circuit will play a more
important future role in the blocks
a spatial framework of recent years at Britomart, Wynyard between Customs and Quay Streets.
summary for how the Quarter and the city centre shared spaces.
These destinations are breathing new life
As has occurred elsewhere in the
city centre, achieving a finer grain
many public space into Auckland’s city centre and waterfront development pattern will help activate
and development and bringing much greater concentrations future development bringing a livelier,
opportunities downtown of activity and public life to our city centre
and harbour’s edge.
more vibrant public life and greater
depth of offering that are key aspects of
may come together. To get there we need strong north-south
transforming the whole of downtown to
become a waterfront destination in its own
and east-west pedestrian connections and
right.
Significant scope exists public spaces that draw the water and
city together. We also need to seize the
to take an integrated significant private sector development
approach to public opportunities to realise a new step change
in the ongoing revitalisation and economic
space and development development of the downtown area.
opportunities that can
maximise the value of
investment.ferry
basin
quay street waterfront boulevard
3 4 6
viaduct B B 6 B
basin B
B
5
B B
1 2
B
2 5
beach road 2
B customs street
5
B
B B
3 2 1
2 4
1
B
B
Quay Street waterfront
B
boulevard New network bus 1 City Link Bus B
key B
Fanshawe Street/ Customs Street
routes
2 Inner Link Bus
Downtown interchange
/ Beach Road B B
bus stops (indicativeBsize
and location) 3 North Shore Buses
Future potential east-west
laneway (24/7 public access) Underground rail 4 Western Buses
draft
(Post-CRL)
Future ferry terminal 5 Eastern & Mt Eden Buses
redevelopment / Beach Road
re-configuration cycleway 6 Tamaki Drive Buses
(indicative only)49
DOWNTOWN framework:
Movement
All major modes of transport are due with Queens Wharf and Quay Street.
This page provides to undergo a significant change in the This solution relies on a new east-west
a spatial framework downtown area in the next decade; from
the completion of the CRL and New
laneway (24/7 public access) to achieve an
integrated and functional PT hub between
summary for how Network bus operations to significant modes.
the major changes to improvements for walking and cycling.
Traffic on Quay Street will be ‘de-tuned’ to
transport and access Auckland’s current complex bus network
is being replaced with a simpler, more
enable its transformation into a landmark
harbour edge street. Whilst the prime focus
may come together in legible network of frequent bus services for transport improvements is on the public
downtown. which will make public transport much
more accessible - and understandable - to
transport network and the development
of the pedestrian realm and cycle-friendly
non-users. Bus stops will be arranged in downtown, it remains vital to ensure that
Upwards of 150,000 ways that enable a significant uplift in high sufficient vehicle access is retained, to allow
people per day currently quality public space.
Buses from the West and North Shore
for through traffic, deliveries, taxis and
property access.
pass through downtown will use a redeveloped high quality Lower With the area about to go through a period
by every transport mode Albert Street bus facility. A small number of major transformation and a sustained
possible. of bus services will use Tyler Street,
Galway Street and Commerce Street
period of construction activity, keeping the
movement network operating becomes
(Tamaki Drive services and Eastern and Mt more important than ever.
Future investment will Eden services). This configuration largely
removes buses from Lower Queen Street,
allow even greater allowing it to return to a more pedestrian-
numbers of people to oriented public space linking Queen Street
access the area while
freeing up valuable real
estate for public spaceA queen street spine
& DOWNTOWN HUB:
Key Challenges & Inter-dependencies
Lower Queen Street and
the surrounding blocks inter-dependent projects KEY Challenges
are facing some major AllDowntown
of the proposed projects in the Key challenges to work through in
changes that have the others to some Framework are dependent on
extent.
addressing the inter-dependencies include:
• Providing for improved bus operations
potential to completely Decisions as to which projects to progress while also providing for significant
transform the area or delay and how they are designed need
to be made in the context of the inter-
improvements to public space on Lower
Queen Street
within the next 5 years. dependencies. • Co-ordinating the design and delivery
In the sector (A) Queen Street Spine & of the City Rail Link enabling package
There are a number of key challenges and Downtown Hub these include: & Downtown Shopping Centre
inter-dependencies in both space and time redevelopment
to realise this potential on the ground. Key • City Rail Link Enabling Package
issues that need to be addressed at this • Lower Queen Street • Co-ordinating the design and delivery
time include the future of Queen Elizabeth • Queens Wharf of the Downtown Shopping Centre and
Square, the design and consenting of the • Quay Street related public space upgrades including
Downtown Shopping Centre redevelopment • Downtown Bus Interchange a potential new east-west laneway
(Precinct Properties NZ Ltd) - including any • Customs Street Upgrade connection to Albert Street buses
laneway and through site links - and the re- • Ferry Basin Redevelopment
• Customs Street reliability
routing of buses. • Downtown Shopping Centre
improvements for buses and general
Redevelopment
There are also significant time-based traffic while also improving north-south
• Seawall Upgrade
inter-dependencies. It is likely that pedestrian connections
• Central Wharves Strategy
changes to public transport operations and • Future changes to the ferry terminal
infrastructure and public space upgrades The most immediate considerations
operations and infrastructure and
will need to fit around the construction of include the Downtown Shopping Centre
adjoining public space and development
the CRL enabling works and Downtown redevelopment, the construction of the City
opportunities on Queens Wharf and
Shopping Centre redevelopment. This may Rail Link enabling works under the shopping
Quay Street
include working progressively towards centre block and Customs Street, and re-
routing of the downtown buses as part of • Co-ordination of various public space
desired future outcomes.
the rollout of the New Network. streetscape projects relating to Lower
Queen Street, Quay Street, Lower
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