NZ Urban Development news from the media | 29 March 2022 | Land around Takapuna carpark sold to developer for $400m scheme

Land around Takapuna carpark sold to developer for $400m scheme

Land around a $33.2 million carpark site in Takapuna's heart has been sold to developers Willis Bond who plan a $400m apartment/office/restaurant/shopping scheme there.

How much the Wellington-headquartered development business paid owner Eke Panuku remains secret in the controversial deal, hotly debated for many years.

The new multi-level Toka Puia carpark, which opened in 2020, replaces carparking at the former Anzac St at 38 Hurstmere Rd/40 Anzac St next to Potters Park and Lake Rd.

Willis Bond managing director Mark McGuinness said his business had been working on the scheme, to be called Takapuna Central, for up to three years. Associated construction company LT McGuinness will put up the buildings.

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/land-around-takapuna-carpark-sold-to-developer-for-400m-scheme/4RAIF6T3PBQYMTLQCTZ2IMZTZA/

Rotorua marks third step in delivery of its Emergency Housing plan

A critical turning point in the Government’s actions to better support people living in emergency housing motels in Rotorua has been reached, says Housing Minister Megan Woods, who is visiting its recently completed housing hub.

“Te Pokapū, a community-led housing hub in central Rotorua, is a single access point connecting people with the right support services for them,” says Megan Woods.

“It is the result of many months of careful planning, and could not have been achieved without a strong partnership between Te Taumata, social service providers, MSD, and Lakes DHB.

“This one-stop shop provides crucial support for people in Government-contracted motels, including services to help whānau settle into their accommodation, social worker support, Ready-to Rent programmes, budgeting training, numeracy and literacy training, and after-school and holiday programmes for children.
“This hub is a key part of the moves we made last year to ensure there is wrap-around support for whanau and tamariki living in motels,” Megan Woods said.

https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/rotorua-marks-third-step-delivery-its-emergency-housing-plan

Myers Park underpass set to shine; upgrade begins next month

Auckland Council has announced work will begin in April to upgrade the northern (city) end of the much-loved and historic Myers Park.

By the end of summer 2022/23, the underpass connecting the city to the park will be transformed from a carpark to a welcoming public space. The underpass will feature artwork designed by Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei), through partnership with mana whenua, providing a beautiful new entranceway for the park. A new staircase will lead to Queen Street, and new seating, lighting and native planting will make the park an inviting oasis in the city centre.

The Myers Park upgrade is part of a wider programme of work happening to revitalise the midtown area and ensure the heart of our city centre is a vibrant place people are drawn to, one that is uniquely Tāmaki Makaurau. This work is informed by the visionary City Centre Masterplan.

https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/news/2022/03/myers-park-underpass-set-to-shine-upgrade-begins-next-month/