Integration

Abstract

RESEARCH QUESTION: How can intensification within a suburban centre enhance the existing urban fabric and rejuvenate a sense of community?

ABSTRACT: Auckland is making a determined push towards higher density living. Development plans look at creating nodes of density within major transit suburbs, and Auckland is set to change in unprecedented ways. Large schemes built to meet regulations and to maximise economic objectives are beginning to taint our existing urban fabric. The culture of our suburban lifestyle and the character of our suburban centres is rapidly disappearing.

Onehunga is a critical suburb within this change and a prime example of this damaging process. A historic suburb essential in settlement of Tamaki Makaurau, Onehunga was a key trading point between Maori and Europeans and featured New Zealand’s oldest port. This study investigates ways in which Onehunga can be developed to preserve its character and contextually respect the existing urban fabric. It examines the critical strategies to creating sustainable communities in this process of necessary urban change, acknowledging plans such as Auckland Council’s Panuku Development and the Masterplan 2050, but critical of their approach, and their results.

Through its history, and by its present condition, Onehunga has the potential to rival other older suburbs – Ponsonby, Parnell – as urban identities in Auckland. Integration will create a mixed-use higher-density scheme which aims to turn the currently run-down core into a revitalised, intensified and vibrant suburban centre, with the identity of a “go-to” destination.

This design study will be the catalyst.

Site: Waipu Lane, Onehunga