Te Ara Tukutuku is a project aimed at regenerating the northern end of Wynyard Point in Auckland’s CBD into a beautiful new waterfront destination.
Through co-design and applying Matauranga Maori (traditional Maori knowledge) and science, the 5ha public space is being transformed from its petro-chemical past into a healthy and thriving coastal environment.
From 1840, the modified Auckland shoreline steadily encroached upon the harbour, with wharves progressively built and reclamation used 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.
Bulk petro-chemical storage began in the area in the 1930s.
Heavy contamination has resulted from these activities, degrading the mauri (life essence) of Te Waitemata and the surrounding landscape.
The project will deliver the largest new open space in the city centre in 100 years. However, it will be a shift away from an orthodox regular public space — including a ngahere (forest), outdoor classrooms, whare waka, tidal stairs and waka ramp, marine restoration in action, educational opportunities, elevated headland, and places to pause and take a breath.
For more information visit www.ekepanuku.co.nz/projects/tearatukutuku.
