Wynyard Park - a 'once in a lifetime' opportunity

Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter is about take another key step in its multi decade transformation in what Eke Panuku’s General Manager of Design and Place describes as “an opportunity of a lifetime.”

Gyles Bendall says Eke Panuku, which is the Auckland Council-controlled organisation that delivers urban regeneration in Tāmaki Makaurau, is looking for a partner to lead the design of all the public spaces within Wynyard Point, the area north of Silo Park on the waterfront. This includes streets, laneways, coastal, edges and the long awaited five hectare park on the point. He says in total the team will be creating seven hectares of new public spaces.

The area set for development was once known to Aucklanders as ‘tank’ farm due to its history as an oil storage depot.

“There are not many times you get to design such a large park, with extensive coastal edges, in such a special location right in the city centre.

“We are looking for something very special, we want to dial it up in terms of culture significance and we want it welcoming for all people of Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond.

“It's not just the physical output, but the way we do it. The process that we undergo is going to be crucial in the making of something special and unique,” says Bendall.

Eke Panuku's indicative concept render (not a final design image).

The transformation of this area from industrial to mixed-use has already begun with the removal of the tank farms and Eke Panuku is working closely with mana whenua to plan this new park, the largest to be created in 100 years since the completion of Victoria Park.

Eke Panuku is calling for expressions of interest from designers, or a design cohort, to be a part of the team providing “inspiring and innovative design responses for the public realm and open space at Wynyard Point.”

This plan, says Eke Panuku, “will define this whenua with bold designs that prioritise sustainability and the ability for all to access the point and harbour beyond. A place that is climate-resilient and will stand the test of time. We are working closely with mana whenua on this unique design to enrich these spaces, enabling mana whenua to exercise their role as kaitiaki.”

The call for expressions of interest closes on February 22.

Bendall says the area will also include mixed-use developments, likely to be predominantly residential.

The expressions of interest will close on 22 February and you can find more information here.

Eke Panuku says before any development takes place, it will work closely with Aucklanders to consult and ensure the development reflects public aspirations.

In terms of the design lead, Bendall says Eke Panuku is looking for a team which it will form a strong relationship with and which in turn will form a strong relationship with mana whenua and all other stake holders.

“We’re not looking for a consultant, we are looking for long term relationship if you like, and a once in a lifetime opportunity.”