NZ Engine – Page 453

February 5, 2026

Turn local ideas into environmental action — funding closing soon

Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

Date: 03 Feb 2026

From weekend planting days to stream clean-ups, predator control and education projects, community groups across Waitaha Canterbury are already doing incredible work for the environment – often powered by volunteers, passion and local know-how.

Now, we’re inviting community groups across Waitaha Canterbury to take their ideas further, with three contestable funding rounds open to support practical, community-led projects.

Whether you’re a small volunteer group, a catchment collective, rūnanga or a local trust, these funds are designed to help turn good ideas into meaningful, on-the-ground outcomes.

What this can look like on the ground

Community-funded projects come in many shapes and sizes. Two typical examples might look like this:

Restoring a local stream: A small community group has been caring for a local stream for several years, relying on volunteer working bees and donated plants. With contestable funding support, the group is able to fence off vulnerable areas, purchase eco-sourced native plants, bring in expert advice to guide planting, and host a community planting day that attracts new volunteers. Over time, the project improves water quality, restores habitat for native species, and builds long-term community stewardship of the stream.

Preparing for a changing climate: A neighbourhood or catchment group is noticing more frequent flooding and drier summers affecting local land and waterways. With support from the Waitaha Action to Impact Fund, the group develops a climate adaptation plan that includes actions such as planting shade trees, restoring wetlands to slow floodwaters, improving soil health, and running workshops to help the community understand and prepare for climate impacts. The project helps reduce local climate risks while strengthening community resilience and connection.
Projects like these are happening right across Canterbury — led by people who know their local places best.

Funding that supports real community action

Waitaha Action to Impact Fund

This fund supports a wide range of community-led environmental projects, including native planting, pest and weed control, wetland restoration, education programmes, and community engagement activities. It’s particularly well suited to grassroots groups wanting to grow their impact or trial new ideas. Find out more about this fund.

Christchurch and Banks Peninsula Biodiversity Fund

For groups working within Christchurch and Banks Peninsula, this fund helps protect and restore indigenous biodiversity. Projects may include fencing and planting to protect remnant bush, controlling invasive species, and restoring habitats for native wildlife. Find more about this fund.

CWMS Action Plan Fund

Aligned with the Canterbury Water Management Strategy, this fund supports projects that improve freshwater health and strengthen local water stewardship — from riparian planting and wetland restoration to catchment planning and education initiatives. Find out more about the fund.

Designed with community groups in mind

The funding recognises the important role community groups play in caring for the region’s environment.

“These funds recognise the energy, knowledge and commitment that exists across our communities,” Deputy Chair of the Canterbury Regional Council, Iaean Cranwell says. “By backing local ideas, we’re helping people deliver projects that reflect local priorities and create lasting benefits for their area.”

Funding can be used for things that often make the biggest difference for volunteer groups — such as materials, plants, fencing, contractors, specialist advice, coordination, and community engagement activities.

Thinking about applying?

If your group has an idea — whether it’s something you’ve been talking about for a while, or a project already underway that could go further with support — now is the time to apply. Applications for all three funds are open now and close at 11:59pm on Sunday 15 February 2026.

We encourage groups to:

Start simple — strong, achievable projects are encouraged
Focus on local benefits and community involvement
Use the funding guides and checklists available online to support applications

Ready to apply for funding? Full details, eligibility criteria and application forms are available on our

community funding webpage.

February 5, 2026

What you need to know about the Nīkau Palm Valley Bay vessel incident

Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

Preliminary assessment

Initial assessments undertaken on Monday show the vessel has sustained more significant damage than originally anticipated. It is likely that the full amount of marine diesel fuel that was on the vessel has been released to the sea; observations are showing us that the environment is coping with the release of this fuel, with sheens decreasing throughout the day.

Wildlife specialists are on standby, and precautions are in place to mitigate any potential impacts to the surrounding environment. No wildlife in distress has been observed at this time.

Recovery planning underway

We are working closely with iwi partners, the Department of Conservation, the vessel owner and specialist salvage team to progress a safe and coordinated recovery operation.

Our focus is on protecting the environment and ensuring the recovery is carried out safely and in a way that minimises further risk to the environment.

“This is a complex operation, and we appreciate the support of all agencies and the local community as we work through the safest approach,” said Emma Parr, Regional On‑Scene Commander.

Current planning indicates the recovery will occur in two phases:

Phase 1: Moving the vessel into deeper water, where it can be submerged in a controlled manner to prevent further structural damage from wind and sea conditions. This is anticipated to happen over the next 24 hours.
Phase 2: Once stabilised, the vessel will be lifted and removed from the area. The timing of this will depend on weather, sea conditions, and operational safety requirements.

Exclusion zone remains in place

An exclusion zone continues to be enforced around the vessel, and all non‑response vessels must keep clear to ensure the safety of those working on site.

Further updates will be provided as the response progresses.

February 5, 2026

Councillors gather to discuss submissions on “consequential reforms”

Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

“These are the most consequential reforms that New Zealand has faced for quite some time and there is a lot at stake” Chair Swiggs said.

Canterbury Regional Council plans to file submissions regarding rates capping, the Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill, and Simplifying Local Government proposal.

Staff prepared the submissions in consultation with Councillors, and any feedback received during Thursday’s workshop would inform Council’s final draft submissions.

Swiggs acknowledged the recent work both Councillors and staff had done – including over the summer shutdown period.

“I really appreciate what everyone has done in this space, including conversations you’ve had with your communities, your papatipu, with mayors, fellow councillors and ministers – the work has gone on,” Chair Swiggs said.

“The proposals are complex and difficult to engage with in isolation. It’s important that as many people as possible get on the same page, because it’s not just regional governance that’s at stake here, it’s our environment, our livelihoods, our future.”

Rates capping

The Government has agreed to introduce a rates target model for local government, applicable from 1 July 2029 with a transition period from 2026. A preliminary target range of 2-4 per cent per year per capita is proposed.

The draft submission states that the Council “supports the need for financial accountability but does not support the model as proposed” and is “of the view that a rates cap will not lead to the outcomes the Government is seeking”.

Councillors debated the submission and shared their views, with feedback expected to influence the final submission. Of note was the reinforcement that financial discipline was important, with or without a rates cap.

It also recommends that emergency response and disaster recovery should be considered separately.

The Government is proposing a major overhaul of local government, including the abolishment of regional councillors and the creation of a board of mayors to collectively lead regional issues and take over current regional council roles and obligations.

The Council’s draft submission agrees that local government needs reform. We recommend regional councillors remain in office until the 2028 local elections to provide continuity of regional governance and support a stable transition during reform. The submission recommends a temporary governance arrangement of the district mayors that includes representation from regional council, mana whenua, and central government to make decisions on regional reorganisation.

It also recommends an amended timeframe to allow for greater clarity and more analysis to align with the resource management reform processes. It is a complex proposal, and time is needed to understand the cumulative impacts, including allocation of roles and responsibilities, costs to transition and implement, and funding and resourcing arrangements.

Councillors agreed that a stable transition is critical and the value of decision making at a regional scale should not be overlooked.

The submission goes on to say that Council is “significantly concerned” that the proposals limit mana whenua voice in regional decision-making and “critically undermine Ngāi Tahu rangatiratanga, historically recognised by the Crown through the Ngai Tahu Settlement Act”.

Deputy Chair Iaean Cranwell said Ngāi Tahu has gone through their Settlement and it’s important mana whenua continue to have a say in Waitaha while working alongside the regional council.

“Our partnership with Environment Canterbury is probably one of the shining lights of relationships with councils throughout the Takiwā of Ngāi Tahu. I’m concerned that if the Government removes Te Tiriti o Waitangi from the two Acts they’ll create more Treaty grievances,” he said.

Planning and Natural Environment Bills

The Government has proposed to replace the current Resource Management Act (RMA) with the Planning Bill and the Natural Environment Bill.

This will result in more centralised decision-making, stronger environmental limits, enhanced protection of property rights, and fewer plans and resource consents.

The Council’s draft submission agrees that the current Resource Management Act is no longer fit for today’s challenges, and that reform is “necessary and overdue”. However, there’s concern about a “shift towards centralised decision-making” that “will lead to a loss of voice for communities.

“For reform to be successful, it must work for the communities it serves by establishing an enduring framework that meets the needs of current and future generations.”

While Environment Canterbury supports many of the goals in the Natural Environment Bill, our submission states it should go further – requiring restoration and improvement of natural environments.

Under the Government proposals, local authorities would only handle a small range of tasks. Crucial decisions around policy, funding and planning, would be made by new spatial planning committees. Regional councils and mana whenua have invaluable perspectives so it’s crucial they are included in these new committees and are part of the decision-making for the long-term success of our region.

What’s next

The rates capping submission is due on 4 February and set to be endorsed under delegation by Chair Dr Deon Swiggs.

Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill submissions are due on 13 February and Simplifying Local Government on 20 February. Both are set to be endorsed on 11 February by Environment Canterbury’s Strategy and Policy Committee.

February 5, 2026

Auckland celebrates the City Rail Link’s first finished station neighbourhood

Source: Auckland Council

The Waitematā Station Plaza and eastern glasshouse entrance to the station are open, completing the City Rail Link’s first station neighbourhood in the city centre.

This is the first of three above ground renewal programmes being delivered around CRL stations by the Auckland Council group and City Rail Link Limited, in the city centre.

Chair of the Policy, Planning and Development Committee, Councillor Richard Hills, is excited to see another public space open to Aucklanders and visitors to our city.

“After the recent cleaning and refresh of the eastern glasshouse entrance, it’s fantastic that we have now met another important milestone – the completion and opening of the works above ground in this station neighbourhood.”

“This area is functional and stunning, in equal proportion. I’m proud to see it finished, ahead of the historic moment later in the year when CRL is up and running,” he says.

Simon Oddie, Auckland Council Priority Location Director – City Centre, says station neighbourhoods are critical to unlocking the full value of the City Rail Link.

“The City Rail Link is much more than a transport project – it’s a city-shaping investment. Station neighbourhoods are where its benefits are truly realised – places that connect people seamlessly to jobs, learning, culture and daily life, while supporting a more walkable, resilient and low-carbon city centre.”

“Over the past decade, we’ve delivered a coordinated programme of upgrades to prepare the city centre for thousands more people arriving by train, bus, ferry, foot and bike. CRL accelerates that shift, and these station environments are the physical expression of a more connected, people-focused Auckland.”

“By designing the stations and their surrounding streets together, we’re creating places that work harder for Auckland – places that support economic activity, encourage public transport use, and make the city centre easier and more enjoyable to get to and move around.”

Referencing the thinking of American urban economist Edward Glaeser, Oddie says the approach reflects the role cities play at a global scale.

“As Edward Glaeser says, ‘Cities are humanity’s greatest invention.’ To unlock that potential, cities need to be well planned and operate efficiently. These station neighbourhoods are about doing exactly that – using major transport investment to shape better urban outcomes above ground, not just below it,” he says.

Simon Oddie adds that the Waitematā Station neighbourhood has become a highly efficient transport hub which is a greener and more attractive place to spend time in now.

“We have trees for shade and other environmental benefits, better lighting, public art, and spaces that reflect the identity of Tāmaki Makaurau. Our partnerships with mana whenua are central to this work. These environments tell a story about place, culture and connection, and we’re proud of what that represents for Auckland’s future,” he says.

The Auckland Council group has worked for more than ten years alongside City Rail Link Limited, Auckland Transport and the private sector to ensure the stations’ surrounding streets and spaces are enhanced and ready for the influx of people expected to arrive when CRL opens later in 2026.

Walk the station neighbourhood

We’ve created a ten-stop walk, through the first finished station neighbourhood, from Quay Street to the station’s glasshouse entrance which has re-opened after many years of construction:

1. Quay Street + 40-year-old pōhutukawa

Walk among the pōhutukawa planted along Quay Street as part of its transformation from a busy four-lane road into a leafy two-lane street with wide footpaths and a two-way cycleway. Seven of the trees are more than 40-years-old, providing shade, attracting birds, absorbing carbon and reflecting this coastline centuries ago when Māori voyagers first discovered these shores. The trees’ extraordinary journey is on YouTube.

2. Te Wānanga + kina shaped balustrades

Te Wānanga (on the seaward side of Quay Street) is an architectural take on a rocky tidal shelf, with openings like rock pools and steel balustrades like giant kina shells. The organic shape of the space was inspired by the sandstone headlands of the Waitematā Harbour. Walk through a coastal grove of pōhutukawa, with rongoa (medicine) plants and harakeke (flax) in the gardens, species that were here before the city was built.

3. Handrails

Run your fingers over the handrails on the seaward side of Te Wānanga. You’ll see the carving of Reuben Kirkwood (Ngai Tai ki Tāmaki) and the weaving of Tessa Harris (Ngai Tai ki Tāmaki). Both elements are part of the downtown programme’s partnership with mana whenua, ensuring it tells the authentic story of this place.

4. Sea wall

It’s not visible, but it’s important for our resilience as a waterfront city. The downtown upgrade began by strengthening the seawall that Quay Street sits on, protecting the city for the next 100 years from rising sea levels and seismic events. The care and precision the project’s engineers put into the design and construction of this strengthened seawall was extraordinary.

5. WWI beacon

Look along to the Albert Street bus interchange, and you’ll notice an exquisite glass orb and spire have returned to the top of the WWI Memorial Beacon in Quay Street. Built in 1915, the monument symbolised a beacon of hope and the safe return home of our soldiers. It also served as a functioning light guiding ferries to city wharves. In 2022, the council group oversaw the return of the re-made ironwork spire and glass orb. Read the story on OurAuckland.

6. Canopies of Te Ngau o Horotiu

If you’re catching a ferry from the city centre, departing from one of the six outer piers, look up and see the mahi toi of artist Maaka Potini (Ngāti Tamaoho). The design honours our earliest voyagers. These 100 tonne canopies were craned into position at night in 2021. Read more on OurAuckland.

7. Te Komititanga

Breathe in the scale of this magnificent city square. Its name reflects the mixing of people, converging from multiple transport points, and the place where the waters of the Waitematā and Waihorotiu stream merge. Look down and see a whāriki (welcome mat) made from basalt pavers laid in a pattern by artist Tessa Harris and her team of weavers.

8. Restored CPO

The restored, heritage-listed Chief Post Office (CPO), the western entrance to Waitematā Station, was built in the early 1900s. Inside you’ll see a beautiful dome that is fit for a cathedral. Look down and you’ll see the original foundations encased in glass, telling their story. In a complex feat of engineering, the building’s weight was transferred to its new foundations ahead of the construction of the City Rail Link’s twin tunnels below.

9. Galway Street + Tyler Street

Continue along one of two stunning shared spaces: Galway Street or Tyler Street. Once you’ve let yourself be captivated by the area’s urban charm, the smoothed edges of either street will lead you to the final piece in this station neighbourhood, delivered by City Rail Link Limited and the Auckland Council group – Waitematā Station Plaza.

10. Skylid + Waitematā Station Plaza

Waitematā Station Plaza and the station’s striking eastern entrance (the Commerce Street entrance) are open.

Designed in partnership with mana whenua, the Skylid is a central feature. It carries a sand-blasted design depicting the movement of converging waters. Artist Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Manu) describes his artwork as a map of the historical waterways coming together.

The new plaza, with eight new native trees, sits between two larger squares – Te Komititanga and Takutai Square, already favourite public spaces in this newly finished station neighbourhood.

This ten-stop walk covers just some of the transformational projects delivered around Waitematā Station.

Earlier stories about the area’s renewal, led by both public and private sectors, can be found on the development news page of OurAuckland. Two examples can be read about the city centre’s transformation and a number of significant projects in the past five years.

February 5, 2026

Expert hearing panel confirmed for proposed Plan Change 120

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council and the Government have confirmed the appointment of the expert group that will lead hearings on proposed Plan Change 120.

Known as an ‘independent hearings panel’, the group is made up of nine members with extensive backgrounds in planning, natural hazards, law, infrastructure, transport, economics, design, landscape, cultural values and tikanga Māori.

Mayor of Auckland, Wayne Brown, welcomes the appointments to the panel.

“I’m pleased with the calibre of individuals here. They will be shepherding the public submissions on what will be some of the biggest decisions made this term, it’s important we have the knowledge and years of relevant experience here.”

What does the panel do?

The panel is jointly appointed by the council and the government.

Every submission made on Plan Change 120 will be carefully considered by the panel. They will look at the evidence provided and recommend changes where appropriate.

Submitters do not have to attend the hearing for their submission to be considered, but they are welcome to if they want to share their views with the panel directly.

Once all hearings conclude, the panel will make recommendations to the council on where changes could be considered as a result of submissions.

All changes to the Auckland Unitary Plan go through a hearings process like this, as it’s required under the Resource Management Act.

Meet the experts overseeing the Plan Change 120 hearings

Sarah Shaw, law: Auckland Council announced the appointment of the panel’s chair, Sarah Shaw, in November. Sarah is a barrister with over 25 years of experience in environmental, resource management, public law and local government law, with a particular focus on district plan preparation.

Panel members

Karyn Sinclair, planning: Karyn is a planner with over 35 years’ experience across a broad range of areas. She specialises in transport infrastructure, environmental planning, coastal planning and district and regional planning.

Dr Lee Beattie, urban design: Lee is an urban planner and urban designer. He has 30 years’ professional experience in an extensive range of complex urban planning, urban design and environmental matters.

Karyn Kurzeja, planning: Karyn is a planner with over 25 years’ experience in urban and statutory planning, including policy making and plan development. She also has specialist expertise in land development and large-scale residential and rural subdivision projects, medium density housing developments and greenfield growth projects.

Jack Turner, natural hazards: Jack is a civil engineer and environmental planner with over 20 years’ experience and specialisation in stormwater. Jack also has expertise across three-waters, earthworks, erosion and sediment control, and natural hazards.

Vicki Morrison-Shaw, law, cultural values and tikanga Māori: Vicki is an environmental barrister and accredited hearings commissioner with over 20 years’ experience in environmental, resource management and Māori law issues. She is a Te Reo Māori speaker with whakapapa to Ngāpuhi.

Matthew Prasad, spatial and urban strategy: Matthew has over 20 years’ experience in shaping cities, communities and infrastructure with specific expertise in architecture, urban design, development advisory, spatial and urban strategy.

Dr Stuart Donovan, economics: Stuart is an economist with 20 years’ experience of working in New Zealand and Australia. Stuart has expertise in urban economics, multi-modal transport planning, and infrastructure and land use policy.

Malcolm McCracken, transport and urban planning: Malcolm is a transport and urban planner with expertise in transport planning and strategy, policy development, and transport and land-use integration. He has carried out significant advisory work across local and central government.

Members Karyn Sinclair, Karyn Kurzeja, Dr Lee Beattie and Jack Turner were appointed by Auckland Council and members Vicki Morrison-Shaw, Matthew Prasad, Dr Stuart Donovan and Malcolm McCracken were appointed by the Minister Responsible for RMA Reform (Hon Chris Bishop) and Minister of Conservation (Hon Tama Potaka).

In the interests of making this announcement swiftly before the holiday season, further information about each panelist will be published on the council’s website in the new year.

February 5, 2026

Top 10 city centre wins in 2025

Source: Auckland Council

We reflect on another year of renewal and vibrancy in the city centre.

Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson welcomes the opportunity at the end of the year to look back and appreciate the visible progress on so many fronts, evident throughout Auckland.

“2025 has been another busy year of renewal in the city centre and wider region. We all know renewal can be disruptive and sometimes an inconvenience, but once completed we can all enjoy the benefits.

“These are 10 examples of that progress. I know Aucklanders and visitors will continue to enjoy these and many more in the years ahead. I’m looking forward to making the most of our wonderful city centre in 2026!” says Councillor Simpson.

Photo credit: Jay Farnworth Auckland Council

1. A trio of spectacles

2025 was a year of spell-binding arts presentations in our public spaces. Delighting crowds, octopus-styled artwork Te Wheke a Muturangi by acclaimed artist Lisa Reihana was seen floating on our waters for the first time in May. The same month, people flooded into historic Strand Arcade to hear the voices of angels in Opera in the Strand. And from July, Whai a captivating light-based artwork by Janine Williams was suspended and intertwined across the Gantry at Silo Park.

2. CRL a catalyst for the region

2025 saw City Rail Link Ltd deliver some major milestones – among them, the first successful test train journey through the CRL tunnel in February, which opened the driver testing and training programme. Within the stations, stunning architectural features were unveiled including the shells of pupurangi, kauri snails, in Mercury Lane; the maramataka, Māori lunar calendar, at Beresford Square; a carved kaitiaki guardian at Wellesley Street; and 53 unique red glass triangles embedded into the basalt waterwall at Maungawhau Station.

Auckland Council’s Principal Transport Advisor George Weeks reflects on how CRL will improve transport connections Auckland-wide, when it opens in the second half of 2026. In a Q&A, Weeks illustrates how Auckland Council’s 50% stake in this major infrastructure project will deliver a significant return across the region, and he describes the practical things that make cities efficient, easy to get around and pleasant to spend time in.

3. Midtown momentum builds

Midtown is getting its mojo back. Te Hā Noa, midtown’s emerging green link, has taken big steps forward this year. Native planting, mature trees, widened footpaths and new seating are in place along Victoria Street from Elliott Street to Queen Street and High Street to Albert Park. The new two-way cycleway along Victoria Street West now connects Victoria Park and the Nelson Street cycleway to Queen Street. The buses are back along Albert Street, Pitt St and Vincent St; construction of the new Wellesley Street bus interchange is progressing well; and wastewater and streetscape upgrades are on schedule for completion before CRL opens in the second half of 2026.

4. Matariki light trail

Celebrating Matariki – a time of reflection and connection, the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter – a two-kilometre reflective light trail traced a path from the original spring in Myers Park, along the re-imagined banks of Te Waihorotiu stream, among symbolic portrayals of birds and plants which once thrived in the Queen Street valley, to the original foreshore of Tāmaki Makaurau. Guided by light, art and sounds created by Māori artists, this modern form of Matariki splendour enhanced Aucklanders’ Matariki experience this year.

5. ‘Take 10’ offers safe haven

Aiming to keep rangatahi and others safe on their nights-out, Auckland Council supported the launch of a new pilot initiative called Take 10. Welcoming spaces in various locations across the city centre were offered on Friday and Saturday nights from 10pm to 3am in the winter months – July to September. This and other safety initiatives were enabled by the city centre targeted rate.

Photo credit: Jay Farnworth Auckland Council.

6. Waka Moana anchors history

Set along the Daldy Street Linear Park in Wynyard Quarter, new public artwork Waka Moana reminds us of courageous Māori voyagers who sailed across Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa (the Pacific Ocean) centuries ago, before landing on the shores of Tāmaki Makaurau. Part of a wider vision to form a continuous network of green spaces across Auckland’s city centre and waterfront, Waka Moana by artist Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Manu) features nine six-metre waka-shaped sculptures forming a striking pathway.

Photo credit: David St George

7. 65,000 celebrate Diwali

Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali signifies the triumph of light over darkness and the renewal of life. A week-long celebration, culminating in the two-day festival of this time-honoured tradition, was presented by Auckland Council Events supported by the city centre targeted rate. More than 65,000 people attended the festival in Aotea Centre, Queen Street and the surrounding Arts Quarter.

8. World-first wonderland

A star in the festive calendar in 2025, five-metre-tall columns are delivering a parade of interactive colour and neon light along Queen Street. Each column lights up a different form of festive wonder creating a virtual advent calendar experience never seen before in this historic street. Pedestrian counts are positive, with the Christmas Market in Te Komititanga attracting around 10,000 people. These and other festive activations were proudly supported by Auckland Council Events and the city centre targeted rate. Watch the joy on children’s faces.

Photo credit: Matt Hart Auckland Council.

9. Downtown countdown

A new circular structure, appearing to hover above the ground, now sits in front of Waitematā Station’s striking eastern entrance. Once construction is fully complete in February 2026, the glass atrium will open into a new square, Waitematā Station plaza, with the Skylid a central feature. Designed in partnership with mana whenua, the artwork carries a sand-blasted design by celebrated artist Graham Tipene who calls his latest mahi toi a map. “It’s a map of the historical waterways coming together,” he says.

10. Springboard for startups

Driving the region’s commitment to innovation and building a runway to help early-stage businesses achieve success, Auckland Startup Week energised Wynyard Quarter in October. Organised by the Economic Development Office within Auckland Council, the week’s 32 events at 10 city centre venues brought together more than 4000 investors, industry experts, and startup founders at all stages of business development. Watch a highlights video below.

Karanga Plaza, Wynyard Quarter.

Experience a refreshed city centre this summer. With re-configured streets, award-winning public art and Wynyard Quarter’s one-year-old harbour pool, you’ll find new energy and artistry all around.

Newly planted trees are bringing birds, providing shade and absorbing carbon, while the growing visibility of Māori values and histories in art and design continues to enlighten the cityscape.

Make a day of it and discover what’s new since you were here last. Some places have been cherished for a hundred summers. Others are new this summer.

We wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas and New Year.

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February 5, 2026

Last call for feedback on Auckland’s future housing plan

Source: Auckland Council

Aucklanders have until 5pm on Friday 19 December to make a submission on Proposed Plan Change 120, which updates Auckland’s planning rules to strengthen natural hazard protections and meet legislative requirements from the Government to enable more housing, including near public transport, jobs, and everyday services.

Mayor Wayne Brown says the proposed changes are an important step in ensuring Auckland reduces risk from natural hazards and makes better use of major transport investments.

“With the City Rail Link coming soon and some major busways now upgraded, we must build more intensively where it makes sense around transport hubs and where we have invested significantly in infrastructure, while also downzoning in flood areas.

“This is important. This will help shape how we live and grow in Auckland for the next 30 to 50 years, and Aucklanders only have days left to have their say on this.”

Councillor Richard Hills, chair of the Planning, Policy and Development Committee, says Aucklanders have been clear since the 2023 floods that they want stronger planning rules in high-risk areas.

“Aucklanders told us they don’t want new homes built in high-risk flood areas, and Plan Change 120 delivers on that.

“It includes tougher rules for development in areas affected by flooding and other natural hazards. It also focuses the required housing capacity from central government where it makes more sense – near public transport and town centres.

“It gives Auckland a more coherent and balanced approach to growth compared to the previous planning rules, called Plan Change 78, which allowed more blanket development across the entire city. Instead, it enables new homes where transport access and housing demand are strongest.”

Cr Hills says submissions are a crucial part of the decision-making process.

“These are still proposed changes, and we welcome feedback from everyone on the things they support or want to see changed. Submissions are essential to helping us get this right for Auckland’s future.”

Submissions are still open

Submissions close at 5pm on Friday 19 December 2025, and anyone can make a submission.

To learn more about the proposed changes and how to have your say, visit akhaveyoursay.nz.

All submissions will be considered by an independent hearings panel, which will oversee hearings on all submissions made on Plan Change 120 and make recommendations to the council.

Final decisions on the plan change are expected in mid-2027.

What’s the proposed changes to Auckland’s planning rules?  

Proposed Plan Change 120: Housing Intensification and Resilience will update the Auckland Unitary Plan with:  

stronger new rules to make homes and buildings more resilient and to reduce or stop new development in areas at high risk from flooding, landslides, coastal erosion, and coastal inundation

February 5, 2026

Inside the consent process that cleared the path for New Zealand’s first IKEA

Source: Auckland Council

If you’ve driven past Sylvia Park lately, you’ll have noticed a giant blue-and-yellow newcomer has arrived!

Getting the green light for New Zealand’s first IKEA store at Sylvia Park wasn’t as simple as dropping in some flat-packs and grabbing an Allen key! The construction, now complete, was one of the most technically demanding resource consent processes planners say the city has seen and showcased the breadth of expertise within Auckland Council.

The application was lodged in October 2021 and, although limited notified to adjoining neighbours, IKEA secured written approvals from all parties. As no submissions were received, a hearing was not required, a rarity for a development of this scale.

Still, the technical work involved was substantial. Over 20 specialists contributed to assessments spanning urban design, ecology, transport, cultural effects, economics and stormwater.

The site’s location within the wider Sylvia Park retail precinct required several planning variations to ensure strong pedestrian connections and seamless integration with the existing metropolitan centre especially for people walking between shops, carparks and the train station.

Transport specialists played a significant role, shaping safer pedestrian links, vehicle-access arrangements, and a reconfigured parking layout. Auckland Council’s Transport Engineer Honwin Shen said:

“Our focus was making access intuitive for everyone, people walking from the train station, buses arriving more frequently, and motorists navigating a much busier precinct. The connections had to feel effortless.”

Mana whenua groups were strong partners in the process, providing guidance that influenced site layout, cultural artwork and the naturalisation of a stream corridor. They also delivered cultural inductions for contractors and put in place accidental-discovery protocols for any Māori artefacts encountered during excavation.

Council’s economic specialist Shyamal Maharaj considered how a retailer of IKEA’s international scale might influence nearby centres including Newmarket, Panmure and Botany.

“Our analysis showed that while IKEA draws significant footfall, its product range is sufficiently distinct that it complements rather than erodes the vitality of surrounding centres.”

Recently, Auckland Council’s resource consents team visited the construction site with Naylor Love and Kiwi Property to reflect on how several months of planning work has now materialised on the ground.

Processing planner Oscar Orellana says seeing their work turn into a real, physical project has been especially rewarding.

“Working across so many disciplines—transport, ecology, cultural heritage—really expanded my understanding of what it takes to deliver a major project. Seeing that work reflected in what’s being built on site has been genuinely motivating.”

For the team, IKEA is more than just a big blue box, it’s a reminder of the value of the resource consent system. Careful assessments across environmental, cultural and economic fronts are exactly what give major developments the confidence, and community backing, to go ahead.

IKEA Aotearoa: Key Facts

Location: Sylvia Park, Mount Wellington
Status: completed
Opened: December 2025
Consent lodged: October 2021
Notification: limited-notified to adjoining neighbours including KiwiRail
Submissions received: none (all neighbours provided written approval)
Hearing: Not required
Key considerations: transport, cultural effects, economic impacts, stream naturalisation, urban design, integration with Sylvia Park, contamination, construction impacts
Mana whenua role: site design input, artwork, naturalisation corridor, contractor inductions, accidental-discovery protocols

February 5, 2026

More funding, more impact:

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council is investing big in community climate action with the launch of Te Ara Urutau – Climate and Emergency Ready Fund, offering more than $1million to help community organisations across Tāmaki Makaurau take bold, practical steps to tackle climate change and be emergency ready.

The fund supports projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, prepare for emergencies, and adapt to the impacts of a changing climate. It brings previous and new climate-related grants together into one streamlined process, making it easier for communities to access funding.

Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of Policy, Planning and Development Committee says community groups told Auckland Council they wanted a single, streamlined funding process to cut duplication and make applying easier.

Te Ara Urutau – Climate and Emergency Ready Fund delivers on that feedback.

“No matter where you are on your emergency readiness or climate action journey, this fund is here to help. By supporting grassroots initiatives, we can help Aucklanders to take meaningful local climate action, reduce emissions, get emergency ready and build resilience together.

“This is about creating a fairer, thriving future for all communities across Tāmaki Makaurau.

“We know when organisations, local communities and volunteers can access grants to support their work, they’re able to turn good ideas into real solutions and, in this case, help make Tāmaki Makaurau more resilient and future focused as we face the ongoing impacts of climate change.

“By working together, we will keep the people and the places we love safe from climate disruption and be more emergency ready.”

Through a single application, groups can apply for up to two of the following funding streams:

Emergency Readiness Funding – helping communities work together to get ready for natural disasters and extreme weather events (funding requests range from $5000 to $15,000).
Emissions Reduction Funding – supporting community-led and Māori-led projects that cut carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices (funding requests range from $5000 to $15,000).
Climate Adaptation Planning and Implementation – enabling community-led planning and action for challenges like flooding, sea-level rise, and drought. Community organisations may recognise parts of this as the Auckland Climate Grant (funding requests range from $5000 to $40,000, with additional available to implement plans).

Applications are welcome from a wide range of groups committed to delivering positive outcomes for their communities. This includes community groups such as not-for-profit, charitable and voluntary organisations, mana whenua and Māori organisations, neighbourhood or resident groups, schools leading community projects, and business improvement districts, associations or social enterprises delivering projects with a community or public benefit.

Applications open 2 February 2026 and close 8 March 2026. Funding decisions will be announced before the end of May.

For more information on how to apply, fund guidelines and the detailed application assessment criteria, please visit the main Auckland Council website.

February 5, 2026

New beginnings for Milford: Ngā Wairau project brings hope and renewal

Source: Auckland Council

A heartfelt blessing in Milford last week marked the start of a new chapter for the Wairau catchment, as mana whenua, led by Ngāti Paoa and supported by Te Kawerau a Maki, marked the start of the deconstruction of the Woodbridge Lane bridge.

This moment signalled the official launch of the Ngā Wairau blue-green network, a long-term project designed to reduce flood risk and restore the natural health of the area.

Gathered under bright skies, representatives from mana whenua, Auckland Council, Crown partners, local board members, project teams and residents stood together to reflect on the journey from devastation to renewal.

Healing after the floods

The blessing was both a remembrance and a promise. The Wairau area was one of the hardest hit during the January 2023 floods, when lives were lost and homes, schools, and businesses suffered significant damage. Many families are still rebuilding today.

Councillor Richard Hills said the day was as much about community spirit as it was about engineering progress.

“People here have shown incredible resilience,” he said.

“Neighbours have supported each other, and that’s what has inspired this next step. The Ngā Wairau project is about protecting lives and property now and building stronger, more connected communities for the future.”

Milford Residents Association co-chair Debbie Dunsford echoed this sentiment, acknowledging both the pain of the past and the promise of what lies ahead.

“This day is one to reflect on the loss of so many homes, each representing overturned lives and distress. But it’s also a day that marks the first small step in the long project to make the Wairau safe for homes and families. The Milford community has hope that the Wairau will become a visible, healthy and beautiful waterway, a taonga that is a loved and intrinsic part of everyday life in Milford.”

Making space for water — and people

The deconstruction of the Woodbridge Lane bridge marks the beginning of on-the-groundwork for the Wairau community. It’s part of a wider network of blue-green initiatives under Auckland Council’s Making Space for Water programme, supported by Crown funding.

Over 100 Milford homes have already been voluntarily purchased through the council’s Category 3 buy-out scheme, allowing families to move from high-risk areas while creating space for new flood protection and restoration work.

A landscape for generations

The first stage of the Ngā Wairau project focuses on transforming AF Thomas Park into a wetland and detention area to help reduce flood risk. Later stages will widen and restore streams, improve water flow through Milford and Tōtara Vale, and reconnect the waterways of the Wairau catchment.

Auckland Council’s Head of Sustainable Partnerships Healthy Waters Tom Mansell said the project is about more than flood protection.

“We’re creating a living landscape, a place where people, nature, and water can thrive together. It’s about reconnecting our community to the land and water that sustain us.”

Ngā Wairau — the abundant waters

Te Kawerau ā Maki’s Edward Ashby shared the meaning behind the name gifted by mana whenua.

“Ngā Wairau means ‘the abundant waters’. It speaks to healing, restoration, and the shared responsibility we all have to care for the land and water,” he added.

“When we look after the wai, and when we look after the whenua, we look after our people.”

As the bridge comes down, the project’s foundation is one of respect, resilience, and renewal, building not just flood defences, but a stronger, more connected Wairau community for generations to come.