A new public space for the people of Tāmaki Makaurau.
Over the next 10 to 15 years, the northern end of Wynyard Point will be transformed from industrial to inspirational as part of Te Ara Tukutuku Plan.
Te Ara Tukutuku
Te Ara Tukutuku project is regenerating the northern end of Wynyard Point to create a beautiful new waterfront destination for the people of Tāmaki Makaurau.
Through co-design and applying Mātauranga Māori (traditional Māori knowledge) and science, the 5ha public space is being transformed from its petro-chemical past into a healthy and thriving coastal environment.
The project will deliver the largest new open space in the city centre in 100 years. However, it will be a shift away from a regular public space as we know it – including a ngahere (forest), outdoor classrooms, whare waka, tidal stairs and waka ramp, marine restoration in action, education opportunities, elevated headland, and places to pause and take a breath.
Te Ara Tukutuku is laying the foundation for the next stage of development of Wynyard Quarter. The 5ha of resilient, climate adaptive public spaces and laneways will support a further 5ha of marine, commercial and residential development.
The combined 10ha site will continue the high-quality development Eke Panuku has delivered in the wider Wynyard Quarter neighbourhood and will help deliver on our aspirations for a vibrant, diverse, inclusive and place-led community.
The future mixed use commercial and residential buildings will be developed after the open space, enabling seamless integration between the new community and the established elements of Te Ara Tukutuku.
A look into the future
Location
Te Ara Tukutuku project area is part of the Auckland Waterfront. You may currently know this area as Wynyard Point, or the northern end of Wynyard Quarter. While the space forms part of a wider environmental ecosystem, the 5ha public space is shown here.
The name
Te Ara Tukutuku is the project name gifted by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and supported by Mana Whenua Partners. Te Ara Tukutuku refers to the project to design and build this new space.
It is the Māori name used for waka (canoe) ramps to reflect how Māori used the original shoreline of Te Waitematā. It is also a metaphor for the binding of the land and the sea – reflecting our vision for this space.
It is the connection to Te Moana-nui-a-kiwa (Pacific Ocean) through traditional navigation and to karanga, ‘a place to call back to the ancient homeland, Hawaikii’.
Waka were dragged in and out of the water after fishing at Mangōnui, Te Ōnewa and Mahurangi. Awa (streams) such as Tunamau acted as corridors and canoe ramps to Tangaroa and, as such, become an extension of the name, Te Ara Tukutuku.
Within the realm of Tangaroa
The project area is within the realm of Tangaroa (Atua of the sea). Our Mana Whenua partners acknowledge Te Waitematā as a taonga (treasure) with mana Atua (sacred spiritual power), which is fundamentally important for its life-giving essence and spiritual values.
Once home to healthy marine life, the waterfront was developed over time for activities like shipping and storage of chemicals and building materials. This caused contamination which degraded the mauri (life essence) of the area.
Our work will help lift and restore the mauri of moana (harbour) and whenua (land) towards a return to a state of mauri ora (wellbeing). The project approach is about healing and restoring first, before bringing tāngata (the people) back to the area.
A space for everyone
The site was previously not open to the public. Overtime, Te Ara Tukutuku will create a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy – a place where people can pause and take a breath, touch the water, and be immersed in the natural environment.
It will introduce a new way of seeing the space and embed a continuation of Te Hā Noa – to freely experience one’s surroundings, to breathe the essence of life itself, to acknowledge the sights and sounds whilst journeying.
Kaupapa
The space will emerge over time through weaving Mana Whenua-led initiatives and Mātauranga Māori (traditional Māori knowledge) into environmental restoration, infrastructure improvements, design, and perspectives.
The key kaupapa (principles) guiding the transformation are:
- Te Wakatupu I ō Tātou Hapori – Growing Our Communities
- Ā Tātou Whakarite mō ngā Wāhi Tū Wātea – Enhancing Our Public Open Space Journey
- Te Wheako I Te Taha Moana – Celebrating A Waterfront Experience
- Te Manaakitanga – Building On Our Hosting Legacy.
Tāmata te Mauri, Te Tārai, Te Pōhutukawa
Te Ara Tukutuku vision includes lifting, restoring, and enhancing the mauri (life essence) of the moana (harbour), the whenua (land) and tāngata (people).
Before any development can take place, contamination from the site’s industrial past needs to be managed. We are approaching this through a process of Tāmata te Mauri, te Tārai, te Pōhutukawa (Heal, Form and Cultivate).
Tāmata te Mauri (Heal)
Tāmata te Mauri - hei tiaki te taiao
We remember the original landscape that was a flooded valley and is now Te Waitematā, to acknowledge its origins and the once thriving ecosystems. The land was incrementally reclaimed from Te Waitematā Harbour and has served industrial purposes for most of that time.
The heal phase is the first step towards restoring living and connected ecosystems that bring health and wellbeing back to this area.
Te Tārai (Form)
Te Tārai – to design, shape and carve hoe and waka. Te Tārai is used as a metaphor to describe how the spaces will be developed and to inform the identity of each part.
Forming the site will create a natural and resilient coastal edge that will create a diversity of open spaces and experiences.
Te Pōhutukawa (Cultivate)
Cultivation will see the creation of experiences unique to Tāmaki Makaurau, inspiring a new waterfront destination, and spaces for cultural, recreational, and nature-based experiences.
"Ehara tāku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini."
- My strength is not as an individual, but as a collective.
Overview video
Narrated by Eddie Manukau, Ngāti Tamaterā
Key milestones
Vision shared
Spring 2023
Te Ara Tukutuku vision was shared for feedback. The vision documents and a summary of the feedback received can be viewed here.
On and off site now
Tamata te Mauri - Enabling Works now underway
Current enabling works is resolving management of water on site and on getting the basics right. This is focused on:
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Capping layer - clay capping and perimeter bunds will manage the rainfall, so only clean water leaves the site.
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Breathing layer - adding a layer of scoria below the clay capping allows for aeration to continue to improve the ongoing bioremediation of the existing contaminated soil.
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Stormwater treatment and direction to existing outfalls - the clay capping and perimeter bunds will manage the rainfall so only clean water leaves the site.
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Demarcation Layer - If this land is dug up in the future, there will be a fabric layer to show where the old and new materials are under the surface.
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Work around existing trees - trees will be protected throughout the enabling works and then transplanted over time to a new project nursery site to preserve them for the future.
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Low Permeability In-ground Barrier - new inground barrier will prevent contamination leaching out into the harbour with each tidal cycle.
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Ongoing Monitoring and Management Plans - ongoing environmental monitoring and adaptive management plans will inform long-term solutions.
Developed Design is now underway
The Developed Design process is a technical workstream that helps our understanding of how to build the Concept Design with engineering details being developed and confirm what the associated build costs will be.
Eke Panuku is currently consulting with Auckland Council whanau on the Developed Design detail as it is emerging and testing options for engineering and interventions.
Developed Design is expected to be completed in Sept-October 2025.
These next stages will go through to the Waitemata Local Board and Planning Committee and Governing Body.
Project history
Te Ara Tukutuku on Wynyard Point – history and decision making
Since first settlement of Tāmaki Makaurau, a land desired by many, Te Waitematā was highly valued by the many iwi within the region.
Over the past 180 years, urbanisation and industrialisation of the inner-city waterfront area has degraded the mauri (life essence) of Te Waitematā and the surrounding landscape, particularly at Wynyard Point.
Once home to healthy marine life, the waterfront was developed over time for activities like shipping and storage of chemicals and building materials. This caused contamination in the land and into the harbour.
The state of the land is such that it now needs to be healed before any permanent activity or building takes place in the area. Our work will help lift and restore the mauri of moana (harbour) and whenua (land) towards a return to a state of mauri ora (wellbeing). The project approach is about healing and restoring first, before bringing tāngata (the people) back to the area.
The history of the regeneration of the Wynyard Quarter
Auckland Council agencies have been planning for and funding the regeneration of Auckland's waterfront since the 1990’s. The first agreed visioning document was prepared in 2005. https://www.ekepanuku.co.nz/neighbourhoods/wynyard-quarter/ .
The first agreed vision document was adopted in 2005, by Auckland City Council, Auckland Regional Council and Auckland Regional Holdings. This set the pathway for the regeneration of this major waterfront space.
There have been a number of major check-in points and decisions over the last 20 years. These have guided the strategy and delivery of regeneration in the Wynyard Quarter and waterfront.
Over this time extensive consultation has taken place with key stakeholders and the community.
Planning for Te Ara Tukutuku
For Te Ara Tukutuku in particular detailed work on a detailed Precinct Plan began in 2019 and has been regularly reported to the Eke Panuku Board, Waitemata Local Board and Auckland Council Planning Committee.
Extensive consultation has taken place with these groups and other key stakeholders including the general public.
Whilst the attention is on the excitement of creating a new open space in the City Centre, it is important to understand this work is getting a brownfield site ready to safely build a new modern and resilient precinct – including a mixed use development, a marine precinct and an open attractive destination for visitors and the people of Tamaki Makaurau.
Funding to deliver more detailed plans and construction, has been provided through the council's Long Term Plan and Annual Plan process. Both the Long Term Plan (2024-2034) and the Annual Plan processes have legally prescribed public engagement, independent audit and formal adoption by Auckland Council Governing Body.
Legacy documents and decisions
Vision 2040
Vision 2040: Legacy agencies – Auckland Regional Council, Auckland City Council and Auckland Regional Holdings first consulted with the general public. In 2005 this document was endorsed by the Council agencies.
See Vision 2040 Part 1 and Part 2 here
Urban Design, Plan Change and Updated Masterplan 2007-2009
The Vision 2040 document set the framework for a Resource Management Act plan change, that enabled land use development and also set conditions around transport and access.
After the Plan change appeals, a more detailed masterplan was created by the Auckland City Council in 2009.
Auckland Council - Strategic Plans
Waterfront Plan and City Centre Masterplan 2012
In 2011, following the supercity reorganisation, Waterfront Auckland, on behalf of Auckland Council, consulted with the public on the Waterfront Plan. This resulted in an updated view of waterfront outcomes and expected investment.
The Waterfront Plan set out the vision for the precincts of Westhaven, Wynyard Quarter, the Viaduct and Central Wharves.
In 2011, Auckland Council also developed the City Centre Masterplan.
Both documents were endorsed by the Planning Committee in 2012.
Changing the Headland Park Configuration
In September 2017 Auckland Council's Planning Committee approved a new alignment for the park on Wynyard Point.
This alignment, from the east of the headland to its west, provided for shelter from the prevailing winds and strengthened the visual link from Karanga Plaza to draw people to the new open space.
City Centre Masterplan Refresh 2020
In 2020 a refresh of the City Centre Masterplan was completed after public consultation. This version integrated the 2012 Waterfront Plan vision, goals, outcomes and projects, as well as the decision in 2017 to change the reconfiguration of the open space.
The City Centre Masterplan was endorsed by the Planning Committee in 2020. This endorsement drove the programme and priority projects for the Long-Term Plan.
Waterfront Regeneration – Wynyard Point
Following the endorsement of the City Centre Masterplan in 2020 - Eke Panuku, on behalf of Auckland Council, began working to update the technical information, knowledge and data in preparation for the second stage of Wynyard Quarter Regeneration (Wynyard Point).
The technical work over 2019-2020 informed the beginning of the master planning process and product. At the time the document was called the Wynyard Point Draft Masterplan.
Key milestone dates and engagements for the Wynyard Point Draft Masterplan document 2020 2021:
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September 2020 - the document for discussion was endorsed by the Eke Panuku Board for consultation.
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November 2020 – material was prepared for Planning Committee. The meeting, however, was postponed due to time needed for Councillors to prepare and adopt the Covid emergency budget.
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Over 2020 and 2021 - several workshops were held with the Waitemata Local Board and other key stakeholders. Updates were provided to the Chair & Deputy Chair of the Planning Committee, Waitemata Ward Councillor, Mayor of Auckland and City Centre Advisory Board.
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In 2021 Eke Panuku started preparing a formal plan change to incorporate updated land use and transport assumptions into the Auckland Unitary Plan.
In 2021 the Wynyard Point Masterplan document was renamed the Te Ara Tukutuku Plan.
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October 2021 - the Eke Panuku Mana Whenua Forum endorsed the Te Ara Tukutuku Plan.
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November 2021- Eke Panuku was requested to provide an update to the Planning Committee - however this was deferred due to the need to hold extensive Long Term Plan workshops.
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February 2022 - a Planning Committee Workshop was held on the Te Ara Tukutuku material.
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February 2022 - the Eke Panuku Board endorsed the Te Ara Tukutuku Plan.
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March 2022 – the Waitemata Local Board endorsed the Te Ara Tukutuku Plan.
Resource Management Act Changes (RMA) and National Policy Statement in Urban Development (NPS-UD)
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August 2020 - the Government approved the "National Policy Statement NPSUD" legislation, with Eke Panuku being a submitter to this process.
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September 2022 – Plan Change 78 was notified. Eke Panuku, on behalf of Auckland Council, put in a submission based on the technical work informed by the Te Ara Tukutuku investigations, consultation and Plan. This submission was to embed the land use changes into the Resource Management Plans.
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January 2023 – a further submission to Auckland Council was made to Plan Change 78.
This work has been important to inform the development potential of the site, supporting infrastructure needed and height and bulk of buildings.
Developing the Te Ara Tukutuku Vision and Framework
In August 2022 a design consortium, Toi Waihanga, was engaged to assist Eke Panuku and Mana Whenua to further develop the plans for development of the whole site – including the development sites, streets, laneways and the open space.
This phase included detailed engagement with Mana Whenua and key stakeholders.
Key milestone dates and engagements:
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March – April 2023 – engagement sessions with the general public and Auckland Council group on the Vision and Framework.
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December 2023 – the Vision and Framework document was approved by the Eke Panuku Board and endorsed by the Waitemata Local Board for consultation.
Development of the Te Ara Tukutuku Concept Plan
Using the feedback received through the Vision and Framework Phase, the Concept Design was progressed and continued over 2024. This included further development of concepts with Mana Whenua and key stakeholders. See tamariki engagement material here and Summary of Public Feedback here.
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Local Board workshops were held over this time to update on progress, emerging design and engagement feedback.
The Concept Design is the plan that provides direction for the next stages, which look into how the concept can be built.
Key milestone dates and engagements:
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August 2024 - a site walkover was held with the Mayor and Councillors.
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July - August 2024 -engagement with public, businesses, residents and Auckland Council group was held on the emerging Concept Design, via the AKL Have your Say portal, with several public events on site and around the local area.
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October 2024 - the Te Ara Tukutuku Concept Design was approved by the Eke Panuku Board and in November 2024 endorsed by the Waitemata Local Board.
Tamata te Mauri - preparing for Enabling Works
The technical material generated through the Vision and Concept phases informed the onsite requirements for the enabling works. The enabling works progressed to start the healing of the site.
A resource consent for enabling works was lodged by Eke Panuku with Auckland Council in July 2024. Consent was granted in January 2025.
Te Ara Tukutuku - planning timeline
Te Ara Tukutuku Plan
The journey to design and open up the space began in 2020 with Te Ara Tukutuku Plan (13MB) - the guiding document for the next phase of design and delivery in Wynyard Quarter.
Published in 2021, Te Ara Tukutuku Plan was created in partnership with Ngā Iwi Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau and through close consultation with key stakeholders, including the Waitematā Local Board and Auckland Council whānau. The plan draws from the City Centre Masterplan 2020 and sits alongside the Waterfront Plan (7MB) in setting the scene for area over the coming years.
Vision
In opening up the space to the public, the vision is to create a thriving foreshore for the land to reconnect with the sea – bringing Tangarora (Atua of the sea) and Papatūānuku (earth mother) together again, connecting people back to the water.
Tamariki (Youth) are our rangitira mo apōpō (future leaders) and will play an important role in shaping this space.
Te Ara Tukutuku vision has been co-designed by Eke Panuku, our Mana Whenua partners, design collective Toi Waihanga, and technical specialists - Mātauranga Māori (traditional Māori knowledge and practice) science.
We are grateful for the guidance and input on the vision from Waitematā Local Board, Auckland Council whānau, and key people with a special interest in the future of this space.
We’re excited so many people of Tāmaki Makurau have joined this journey so quickly – including engaging on this vision late last year and joining the events so far.
Unique features
It will be a space for everyone - to enjoy, explore, connect with community, engage in nature, and interact with whenua (land) and wai (water) environments.
Being a shift away from a regular public space as we know it, you’ll notice some unique features in the concept designs - including:
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Nature immersion – explore a coastal ngahere… visit a plant nursery… learn in outdoor classrooms… follow an urban stream to the ocean… see climate resilience in action…
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Marine interaction - engage with marine life through habitat education… see marine clean-up and habitat from the shore… and dip your feet in the shallow waters of Te Waitematā…
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Cultural connection - learn about traditional activities and Te Ao Māori (Māori world view)… hear Mana Whenua stories… attend ceremony... enjoy live waiata performances…
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Cultural immersion - get hands-on with waka… participate in and observe waka launches… engage with indigenous knowledge and regenerative practices…
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Coastal activities - walk or ride the scenic coastal path around the edge… picnic in a sheltered spot… swim in an ocean pool… enjoy open spaces for passive recreation… wander up the headland…
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Community events - engage in or watch community and Mana Whenua led events in the plaza spaces… experience something new…
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Scenic lookouts - take in the 360-degree views from the headland… enjoy lookouts around the coast for city and harbour views… observe the working waterfront including waka ramp and marine restoration…
Interactive events
Thank you for so actively engaging in the journey so far, including the free taiao-based interactive educational events.
Te Ara Tukutuku project is creating opportunities for the people of Tāmaki Makaurau to be involved in the mahi (work) and become part of the healing journey for the whenua (land) and moana (marine) environment, including through taiao-based education.
Interactive events continue through August and into the summer months. Learn about upcoming opportunities via our socials or sign up to receive emails .
History of the site
Since first settlement of Tāmaki Makaurau, a land desired by many, Te Waitematā was highly valued by the many iwi within the region.
Over the past 180 years, urbanisation and industrialisation of the inner-city waterfront area has degraded the mauri (life essence) of Te Waitematā and the surrounding landscape.
Original shoreline 1840’s
The waterfront was traditionally a place where Māori lived during the summer months - fishing, gathering, and harvesting the abundant resources from Te Waitematā and hinterland. The body of Te Waitematā was once bountiful.
Over the past 180 years, the bays have been filled in and the land has been developed for human use. This has caused degradation of mauri (life essence) throughout Te Waitematā and the surrounding landscape.
Since first settlement of Tāmaki Makaurau, a land desired by many, Te Waitematā was highly valued by the many iwi within the region.
Reclamation 1920’s
From 1840, the modified shoreline steadily encroached upon the harbour with wharves progressively built and reclamation specifically for industrial, commercial, and marine activity. The site was reclaimed from the harbour through a process of forming a perimeter rock bund then infilling with a combination of dredged harbour sediment and landfill material.
Industry and marine 1930’s
Bulk petro-chemical storage began here in the 1930s.
Heavy contamination has resulted from these activities, degrading the mauri (life essence) of Te Waitematā and surrounding landscape.
Once in abundance, the area is developed into a formed landscape of reclamation and consumption.
Slide to see original coastline vs reclaimed land
Regenerative design
Te Ara Tukutuku is bringing together Mātauranga Māori (traditional Māori knowledge) and scientific research to restore the health of this area, create thriving and sustainable ecosystems, and enhance mauri – for te taiao (the environment) and the people of Tāmaki Makaurau.
Regenerative practice is at the heart of our Te Ara Tukutuku mahi.
We are taking an holistic approach to the health and wellbeing of whenua (land), moana (ocean), wai (water) and tāngata (people) and how they interconnect.
Mauri tu, mauri ora epitomises the holistic health and wellbeing for these ecosystems to heal and regenerate together.
For one to thrive, the others must too.
The culturally led regenerative design process is informed by listening, healing, and concept iteration.
A Whakarito regenerative practice requires manaakitanga, aroha and
growing our collective hononga to place and to one another. Through consideration of this journey inaianei (now), akuanei (soon) and meake (eventually), it is important we are all in this together.
Ngahere and nursery
The ngahere (pronunciation) is a key part of the regenerative design – to create thriving habitats, support healthy and diverse ecosystems, and help nurture the area back to health.
As well as healing whenua (land), the ngahere ecosystem will help restore the mauri of wai (water) by supporting a stream environment and absorbing and naturally pre-treating stormwater before it enters Te Waitematā.
Just moments from the city centre, a coastal ngahere will offer a place to explore nature along accessible discovery trails, up-close experiences with natural ecosystems, and outdoor classrooms for taiao-based learning.
Establishing the forest will take time. An on-site nursery will grow and acclimatise suitable species for the ngahere – including kauri, tōtara, kahikatea, tī kōuka, tainoka, kāramuramu, karo, and rengarenga. The nursery will also offer community open days and workshops for ngahere education.
The process begins with the collection of local and suitable seed from similar coastal environments to grow in the nursery. Seed sourcing and sorting is underway with more free public events planned – you can read about our ngahere events so far.
This mahi is led by Mana Whenua and supported by their consulting technical advisors and ecology specialists, Uru Whakaaro.
“Our coastal ngahere do all they need to do without the intervention of people. We can help grow a new ngahere by observing the structure of wild environments and try to replicate the relationships between plants to give them all the best chance of survival” - Charmaine Bailie, Uru Whakaaro
Marine restoration
Marine restoration is another key part of the design – to create thriving habitats and support healthy ecosystems. As well as healing moana (sea), the marine restoration mahi will help restore the mauri of whenua (land).
The mana of Te Waitematā will be acknowledged by improving degraded water quality, eliminating contamination and related discharges, and regenerating and enhancing habitats to successfully introduce marine species, including tāonga species.
Restoring the mauri of the area will take time.
Te Ara Tukutuku regeneration programme will help improve the water quality and create habitat to support healthy marine systems in this part of Te Waitematā.
Soon, trials to improve water quality and marine habitat will be underway, building on knowledge from recent trials and interventions at other locations in the harbour. We’re working with the Westhaven Seawall project for the first trials, including:
• Seaweed species and kūtai (mussels) – as natural water filters – in different arrangements and depths to monitor their impact on water quality in this area
• 3D printed reefs to offer sea life habitat options above and below water to allow a range of species to try out the reefs
• Living sea wall tiles fitted to the existing sea wall in different design variations
• Floating reefs with seaweed ropes underneath offering food source and shelter for sea life to monitor how best to support different species.
Te Ara Tukutuku concept designs include a Marine Restoration Zone for enduring regenerative practice. A Marine Education Centre will support this mahi and offer interactive taiao-based education for the people of Tāmaki Makaurau.
In the meantime, you can see and touch 3D printed reefs and marine life on land at our interactive education days – view photos from these marine events so far.
This mahi is led by Mana Whenua and supported by their consulting technical advisors and marine scientists, Tātaki Ltd.
Climate change and coastal resilience
Our work to adapt to climate change and improve the coastal site’s resilience includes sea wall enhancements and more formal coastal edges. These resilient edges will also offer more habitat options for sea life, help restore marine ecology, and in turn increase the diversity of marine species to thrive here.
In stabilising parts of the seawall, engineered ‘eco-blocks’ are planned to both repair the wall and provide new habitat for sea life, to support a wider range of coastal species in this area.
Climate change resilience also includes improving flood capacity through design, the ngahere (forest), and other planted areas on the whenua to naturally store and filter run-off.
This forms part of an integrated water management system - a nature-based and resilient system to manage 1 in 500 year flood events.
This mahi is led by Mana Whenua and supported by their consulting technical advisors and environmental engineers Morphum Environmental.
Contamination management
Te Ao Māori (Māori world view) recognises the intrinsic relationship between people and the environment. “If the land is unwell, so are it’s people” - so the degradation of the mauri of the natural environment directly impacts the physical, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing of the people.
Managing historical contamination is the most important element of this project and needs to happen before any development can take place.
It is about healing and restoring first, before bringing tāngata (the people) back to the area.
Regenerative practice involves science from global best practice alongside enduring nature-based solutions and tikanga (customary practice) / taiao (the environment) based approaches to deal with the range of heavy contaminants present.
This mahi is part of the interwoven environmental processes planned to help create thriving ecosystems and restore the mauri (life essence) of this area.
It will take time to manage over 100 years of contamination sources in a space connecting whenua (land) and moana (the harbour).
Education programme
Te Ara Tukutuku project offers many taiao learning opportunities on this journey.
As well as interactive events and community education through the future plant nursery and marine education centre, a programme for kura and schools is also planned around regenerative themes.
Education is a big part of the kaupapa (principles) for Te Ara Tukutuku. It is also important we inspire tamariki and rangatahi, as the future kaitiaki (guardians) of this space, supported by and following the wisdom of their pakeke (elders).
To find out more, feel free to contact us.
You can also stay updated on our socials or sign up to receive emails.
Activations and events
Te Ara Tukutuku project creates opportunities for fun and interactive taiao (environment) based learning as we work towards the vision of creating thriving ecosystems here.
These free all-ages events are designed for the people of Tāmaki Makaurau to meaningfully engage in the regenerative mahi through whenua (land) and moana (marine) activities and see how your involvement directly contributes to regenerating this area.
So many of you have engaged in the events so far - tu meke - the feedback has been so positive! See below how we’re collaborating with technical experts to share unique experiences to connect people and environment.
More interactive activities are planned over August and into the summer season to promote taiao education as part of the project.
Events are announced on our socials or sign up to receive emails.
Ngahere seed collecting
The ngahere development offers interactive learning about healthy whenua environments supporting wider ecosystems.
The people of Tāmaki Makaurau are welcome to join free events alongside ecology specialists Uru Whakaaro – come and see how your mahi will later become part of this coastal ngahere.!
The timing of ngahere activities is guided by Maramataka - lunar calendar.
Events so far:
• Seed sourcing – Friday 24 February 2024 at Little Shoal Bay
• Seed sorting – Saturday 25 February 2024 at the Base Spaces, next to Silo Park
• Coastal ngahere observation - Friday 26 April 2024 on Rangitoto Island
• Seedling dividing and plant care workshop - Saturday 27 April 2024 at the Base Spaces, next to Silo Park Seedling propagation with Pourewa Nurseries and Kaipātaki Project - Saturday 3 August 2024 at the Storytelling Container, next to Silo Park
“The seed collecting is a special process that anyone with training can be involved in. It enables people to play a part in the long-term future of the city. Our role is to identify the seeds, check for ripeness of the seeds and overall health of the plant before collection. We then record all these details so there are no surprises when the seeds germinate in the nursery!” - Charmaine Bailie, Uru Whakaaro
Read more about the ngahere and nursery.
Marine life touch tanks
The marine restoration mahi offers interactive learning about Te Waitematā marine environments, including understanding what we can do to encourage healthy moana as part of Te Ara Tukutuku project.
In collaboration with Goat Island Marine Discovery Centre, the people of Tāmaki Makaurau can meet sea creatures, and see the difference between a thriving marine environment and a less healthy one. Goat Island Marine Discovery Centre also has a special interest in this part of Te Waitematā and bring these fun interactive experiences to the city.
Events so far:
- Marine life touch tanks - Sunday 24 March 2024 at the Base Spaces, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
- Marine life touch tanks - Saturday 27 April 2024 at the Base Spaces, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
- Marine life touch tanks - Sunday 28 April 2024 at the Base Spaces, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
- Marine life touch tanks - Saturday 3 August 2024 at the Storytelling Container, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter•
- Marine life touch tanks - Saturday 10 August 2024 at the Storytelling Container, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
“Through our partnership with the team at the Goat Island Marine Discovery Centre, we’ve opened the connection between our tamariki and the wonders of the sea. Witnessing curiosity in the eyes of these children should fill us all with the optimism that our future leaders will continue this journey of revitalising our marine ecosystems” - Dr Jarrod Walker, Tātaki Ltd
Read more about the marine restoration trials.
3D printed reefs
Te Ara Tukutuku marine restoration mahi offers interactive learning about Te Waitematā marine environments, including trialling 3D printing reef modules for sea life habitat in this area.
Specialist 3D printers Qorox has replicated the shape of naturally forming rockpools and reefs, the shape is inspired by the Ngākihi (limpet/cellana stellifera) and the werewere (barnacle/epopella plicata).
This is one of several trials for creating better habitat options for marine life. The 3D printed reefs will be trialled in nearby Westhaven Marina to see how well they support the growth of marine plants and sea life. If successful, they will be included in the marine environment design for Te Ara Tukutuku.
Events so far:
- Reefs in 3D - Sunday 24 March 2024 at the Base Spaces next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
- Reefs in 3D - Saturday 27 April 2024 at the Base Spaces next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
- Reefs in 3D - Sunday 28 April 2024 at the Base Spaces inext to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
- Reefs in 3D - Saturday 3 August 2024 at the Storytelling Container, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
- Reefs in 3D - Saturday 10 August 2024 at the Storytelling Container, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
“Our challenge for Te Ara Tukutuku project is to re-form a complex coastal structure that, over time, provides conditions for marine plants to grow, creating an environment for a wide range of marine life to flourish” - Dr Jarrod Walker, Tātaki Ltd
Read more about the marine restoration trials and the 3D printed reefs.
Engagement days
Te Ara Tukutuku project is supported by taiao-based educational activities and Mana Whenua projects aligning with the kaupapa.
The collection of projects and practitioners include Mātauranga Māori, sustainability, and regenerative design – offering the people of Tāmaki Makaurau knowledge-share and early involvement in the process of Tāmata te Mauri (healing).
In addition to the ngahere and marine events above, these activities also supported the 2024 public engagement on the draft concept designs.
Activities so far:
- Raranga weaving workshops with Ngāti Whātua Ōrakei
- Pou Rāhui presentation with Mita O'Brien of Ngāti Tamaterā
- Sustainability workshop with Para Kore ki Tāmaki
- Tamariki activity sheet and soft play equipment
- Auckland Council Biosecurity Trailer
- Central Interceptor Experience Trailer - Watercare
- Boat journey around the headland
- Live music, Rangatahi Showcase, curated by Youth Arts NZ
- Complimentary Rongoā Tea offering with Maiden Tāmaki
Events so far:
- Saturday 3 August 2024 at the Storytelling Container, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
- Saturday 10 August 2024 at the Storytelling Container, next to Silo Park in Wynyard Quarter
Workshops and panel sessions
Engagement with industry and community includes presentations, kōrero (conversation), and workshopping ideas and feedback around tables.
This interactive style is being applied to Te Ara Tukutuku project engagement, interactive events, education and learning opportunities - as well as the design for the space itself for the people of Tāmaki Makaurau to connect with their community and environment.
Events so far:
- Panel discussion – Wednesday 24 May 2023 at Sustainable Coastlines
- Wynyard Quarter Neighbours’ Forum - Tuesday 17 October 2023 at Wynyard Pavilion, Wynyard Quarter
- Te Ara Tukutuku vision open day – Thursday 9 November 2023 at Karanga Kiosk, Wynyard Quarter
- Te Ara Tukutuku vision open day – Saturday 11 November 2023 at Karanga Kiosk, Wynyard Quarter
- Te Ara Tukutuku vision open day – Wednesday 22 November 2023 at Karanga Kiosk, Wynyard Quarter
- Auckland Conversations Panel – Tuesday 13 August 2024 at Viaduct Events Centre, Wynyard Quarter
- Wynyard Quarter Neighbours’ Forum – Wednesday 14 August 2024 at Wynyard Pavilion, Wynyard Quarter
Media
Kate Orff, renowned New York based landscape architect and Toi Waihanga team member, talks to Stuff Journalist Todd Niall about the importance of learning from indigenous practices and how this project will be a model for the United States.
Watch the video interview on Stuff.
Activations and events in pictures
Meet the co-design team
Eke Panuku is co-designing alongside our Mana Whenua partners, technical specialists (Mātauranga Māori and science), and design collective Toi Waihanga. Together we’re addressing site challenges, healing the space from its industrial past, and applying regenerative practice and culturally led design to help restore the mauri of the area and create a unique space for the people of Tāmaki Makaurau.
“The regeneration programme of Te Ara Tukutuku is allowing us the opportunity to try new things and continue work started by others. A longer timeframe for delivery means we can lay foundations now and monitor what happens over time, making changes to get the best outcome for our beautiful harbour” – Fiona Knox, Priority Location Director at Eke Panuku.
Our Mana Whenua Partners
Our Mana Whenua Partners share aspirations for place-based, culture-led, and community-driven mahi (work).
Guided by Te Ara Tukutuku Plan, Mana Whenua Partners (representatives of the 13 local iwi who have strong cultural ties to this space) and Eke Panuku are co-designing this enduring environment alongside design collective Toi Waihanga.
The goal is for Mana Whenua and Eke Panuku to partner in decision making about how this space is developed over the next twenty years, enabling Mana Whenua to see themselves and their values reflected here.
This work has enabled Mana Whenua Partners to apply Mātauranga (traditional knowledge) and share their multiple stories about Te Waitematā. This ensures Mana Whenua can continue to express tikanga, exercise their role as kaitiaki, and perform their ancient cultural practices.
Mana Whenua partnership facilitates co-design opportunities for cultural expression, taiao (environment) regeneration, tourism and business activities – which contribute to an authentic and vibrant waterfront.
We acknowledge the time, effort and goodwill that has been invested in this project, in particular by the Mana Whenua Project Working Group which includes:
• Martin Te Moni – Ngaati Whanaunga
• Paulette Reidy – Te Patukirikiri
• Adrian Pettit – Te Ākitai Waiohua
• Mervyn Kerehoma – Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
• Eddie Manukau – Ngāti Tamaterā
• Zaelene Maxwell-Butler – Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki
• Geoff Cook – Ngāti Maru
• Paora Puru – Ngaati Te Ata Waiohua
• Tipa Compain - Ngāti Paoa
The Mana Whenua Project Working Group is open to all members of the Eke Panuku Mana Whenua forum.
The project is supported by the following Mana Whenua technical specialists leading key regenerative workstreams:
• Caleb Clarke, Morphum Environmental (Environmental Engineering)
• Jarrod Walker, Tataki Ltd (Marine Science)
• Charmaine Bailie, URU Whakaaro (Ecology)
• Luke Faithfull, Mitchell Daysh (Resource Management Planning)
Toi Waihanga
To bring Te Ara Tukutuku vision to life, design collective Toi Waihanga has been appointed by Eke Panuku and our Mana Whenua partners to co-design this regenerative space.
Toi Waihanga includes:
• LandLAB
• Warren and Mahoney
• Mott MacDonald
• DONE
• Stellar Projects
• BECA
• Fresh Concept
• SCAPE Studio.
360° view
A 360 degree view of the space, taken early 2024.
Other projects in and around Wynyard Quarter
- Wynyard Quarter
- In Progress
- Mana Whenua
- Urban regeneration
Waka Moana Sculpture for Wynyard Quarter
05/05/2025 - 31/07/2025
- Wynyard Quarter
- In Progress
Viaduct Bascule Bridge
30/05/2023
- Wynyard Quarter
- Complete
Karanga Plaza Harbour Pool
24/04/2024
- Wynyard Quarter
- Complete
Wynyard Crossing Bridge maintenance
28/03/2024 - 13/12/2024
- Wynyard Quarter
- In Progress
Free Wynyard Quarter 'Red Boats' ferry
11/05/2024
- Wynyard Quarter
- In Progress
Wynyard Point bioremediation works
01/02/2023 - 31/07/2023
- Wynyard Quarter
- In Progress
Wynyard Quarter redevelopment
01/06/2011
- Wynyard Quarter
- In Progress
- Wynyard Quarter
- Complete
Homes in Wynyard Quarter
01/12/2023