Lagoon Edge Reserve upgrade Panmure

2023 - 2026

Panmure
In Progress

A set of improvements are planned for the Lagoon Edge Reserve in Panmure.

The vision is to make Lagoon Edge Reserve a place that celebrates the cultural and historical significance of the lagoon and is a destination for locals and visitors alike.

Lagoon Edge reserve upgrade artist render

Eke Panuku, in collaboration with Auckland Council, the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board and Mana Whenua, are working on an upgrade of the Lagoon Edge reserve in Panmure.

The works are part of a wider plan for Panmure that looks to help contribute to it as a thriving town centre. There are several projects getting underway over the next few years as part of this plan, including the upgrade of Lagoon Edge Reserve, a town square on Queens Road, better walking and cycling connections with Maungarei and future residential developments.

The finalised design for the upgrade includes:

New amenities
This will include new seating, picnic tables, drinking fountains, signage, artwork, cycle parking, lighting, and a skatepark spectator area.

More public space
We will relocate part of the Lagoon Pool and Leisure Centre fence line to create more public space in the reserve area.

Improved pathways
These will provide better access to both the lagoon and Panmure Town Centre and make the reserve more pedestrian-friendly and accessible.

A planter box divider
This planter box between the reserve and busy Lagoon Drive will improve pedestrian safety to help separate the current footpath from the road.

Improved sightlines
Some unnecessary fencing and the existing public toilets will be relocated to create better views of the lagoon.

A new public toilet
This will be located next to the public carpark and bike parking.

The creation of new spaces
To cater to a range of users there will be a new area for children and families and a new terraced lawn area with panoramic views of the lagoon.

New landscaping and native trees
These upgrades will help improve biodiversity, increase wildlife habitat, and other environmental outcomes.

Art and Design

Inspired by Mana Whenua narratives, the Lagoon Edge reserve upgrade includes designs from artist Lorna Rikihana (Ngāti Paoa, Ngāti Haua, Ngāti Wairere).

The area was a Pā ika (inshore fishery) and a Tauranga waka (Shelter for canoes).

The designs embody themes of pāwharā ika (sun dried fish rich in nutrients), the importance of a balanced salt diet and freshly cultivated vegetables from the Mauinaina maara kai & Mokoia Pā tūwatawata. The importance of Kaitiakitanga of Te Wai Mokoia and Te Waiōtaiki to ensure the purity of the water, Waitī, (fresh water), emanating from Maungarei into Te Puna o Rangiātea and then flows into Waitā, (Salt water) Te Kai a Hiku (Panmure Basin).

Concept Design Panmure Lagoon Edge Reserve 20231106

Lagoon Edge reserve concept design

Timing for works

The works will begin in the middle of June and construction will take around 9 months to complete.

Please note that the skatepark will close for a period of a few months during construction to allow for the works to be completed more efficiently.

The public toilets will completely close for the duration of the works as they are part of the upgrade.

Map of works area and elements included in upgrade works

Q&A

Will I still be able to walk around the Lagoon?
Yes, access around the Lagoon for walking will be retained. However, there will be times during construction where the new footpaths are being constructed that will see the original walkway route detoured for a short period of time.

What will happen to parking in the area?
Parking will still be available at the Lagoon Edge reserve carpark. However, work vehicles will be using the carpark as an access point into the site and there may be disruptions because of this.

What measures are being put in place to protect the trees and environment at the Lagoon?
Environmental (including coastal) compliance and ecological protections will be a key focus throughout the works. The Department of Conservation will be supporting on this to ensure all their works conditions are complied with.

What disruption mitigations will be in place for the works?
Dust and noise mitigation tools will be in place throughout the works.

What will happen to the current assets in the reserve?
Many of the current assets in the reserve will be recycled, refurbished, or relocated to reduce waste.