2 Aug 2024

Auckland Council invests $47m into parks and community facilities

3:03 pm on 2 August 2024
Te Kori Scott Point in Auckland.

Te Kori Scott Point is among the places funding has been allocated for new park developments. Photo: Supplied / Auckland Council

Auckland Council is investing more than $47 million over the next three years into parks and community facilities.

The funding will come through the Regional Capital Investment Work Programme, and was approved by council's Planning, Environment and Parks Committee last week.

The most significant areas of investment will be in the renewal of existing park infrastructure ($13.8m), the development of new local parks and sports fields ($11.6m) and seismic strengthening of a number of libraries and community halls ($9m).

Other areas include:

  • discrete projects: erosion prevention project at Ōrewa Beach proposed for 2024/2025, and further funding for other projects for the Whau, Howick, Kaipātiki and Henderson-Massey ($6.7m)
  • public art (3.4m)
  • slips prevention and remediation ($1.8m)
  • commercial and residential leasing ($1.04m)
Orewa Beach, Auckland.

Orewa Beach, Auckland. Photo: Supplied / Auckland Council

Councillor Richard Hills, chair of the council's Planning, Environment and Parks Committee, said the preservation of existing assets and the investment in new facilities were key to meeting the needs of a growing Tāmaki Makaurau.

"From our stunning regional parks to the significant local community assets, to works to protect our coastal assets from the effects of climate change, these investments enhance what Aucklanders love about our city and will increase access and use of our public assets," he said.

"As Tāmaki Makaurau grows, new facilities like sports fields and parks are key to meeting the needs of residents now, and in the future."

Investment has been earmarked for upgrades at Auckland Botanic Gardens and the Auckland Domain, including improvements to paths and wastewater infrastructure.

Funding has also been set for new parks and sports fields at Scott Point, Silverdale, Kumeu, Riverhead, Ōrewa, Pukekohe and Papakura.

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