Silverdale Growth Strategy

River Park Concept Cora LawtonHelena Downey

Jill PierceCatherine Duncan

Assignment 1: Studio 6225

Contents

Introduction

Regional Landscape Context And Issues

North Auckland Settlement Patterns

Form and character of local communities

Case Study Area Silverdale

Summary of Findings

River Park Growth Strategy- Vision- Objectives- Development suitability- Proposed Plan

Case Study

References

Introduction River ParkA Growth Strategy for the Silverdale district

Strategic theme: River and Streamside living

The Auckland region, united under one Auckland Council in 2010, is predicted to grow to a population of 2.1 mil-lion by 2050. It has been estimated that 300,000 extra dwellings will be needed in the next 20-30 years. The draft 2011 Auckland Plan identifies growth areas or op-portunity areas in the centre, immediate south and north west, but further development will be required. This strategy proposes developing attractive river and stream side living alongside undeveloped or poorly used key waterways in North Auckland between Orewa/ Hibis-cus Coast and Dairy Flat.

The concept is based on an analysis of the landscape, proximity to other settlements, accessible transport and the opportunity to create a resilient liveable community which adds value to both the natural, local and regional environments

The shape and nature of Auckland’s urban form has been influenced by its long narrow land form indented by three major harbours Kaipara, Manukau and Waitemata

The Waitemata harbour to the east, and Manukau harbour to the west, are separated by a thin isthmus no more than one kilometre across at its narrowest point.

Regional Landscape Context and Issues

During early European settlement, physical developments originated around the ports and jetties of the harbours, giving rise to a combined transport network and urban form that has spread north, southand west.

The region’s rivers were originally important forms of transport also but have been largely replaced by the v network – the new ‘rivers’.

Wade Landing, Silverdale 1920’s

The region has relatively low topography, pre-dominantly below the 200 metre range with two mountain ranges - the Waitakere Ranges to the northwest peaking at 474m and the Hunua Ranges to the south-east (688m). Both provide water supplies to the region.

The region is dissected by numerous moderately steep hills and small catchments. Early Maori agricultural practices and timber logging in the 19th century has both largely denuded the region of its indigenous forests and resulted in extensive siltation of rivers, streams and har-bours. European agricultural grazing practices have also contributed to further run off and over enrichment of waterways.

• At a glance the Auckland region is intensively net-worked with small rivers and streams

• Few large rivers – includes Kaipara, Kaukapaka,Makarau, Wairoa, Okura River

• Many estuarine environments and tidal river-scapes including the case study area rivers of Orewa River and River.

• The whole region is one large waterways system which has been perceived historically as useful for water supplies, irrigation, transport and recre-ation but rarely for its ecological services, amen-ity values or privileging in constructing develop-ment areas

• Urbanisation and farming practices have resulted in many streams and wetlands being drained and filled in and overall degradation

Regional Hydrology

While the Auckland region is a water fed environment with its extensive coastlines and numerous low hills draining to the sea, most streams and wetlands which naturally characterised the region have been drained and/ or dried up from being de vegetated, farmed and built on. The rivers and streams which remain are primarily degraded envi-ronments and until recently have been used as dumping grounds for industrial and do-mestic waste.

The waterways which still retain flowing water to the coastal marine area also tend to be heavily vegetated with mangroves decreasing their flow and navigability, visual values and even perception as waterways.

The region still has a predominantly rural land cover despite being the most populated in New Zealand. Current farming practices do not include automatic riparian reserves around streams resulting in poor quality water values and low biodiversity in many parts of the upper reaches of the catchments which naturally has a flow- on effect.

Issues

The issues here are retirement and re vegetation of land unsuitable for agriculture, hor-ticulture and building due to degree of slope, stability and erosion issues or poor qual-ity soils; and retirement and re vegetation of riparian strips beside waterways- rivers, streams and coastlines. Both these measures, which are integrated catchment manage-ment practices, will improve the quality of the waterways in the region and reconstitute integrated landscape values. Streams and the adjacent riparian areas provide essential habitat and corridors for fish and wildlife species and are critical component of biodiver-sity. Development can evolve around these areas with restored landscapes which focus

Regional Vegetation

• Indicates how important the coast has been for settlement and development- both on land and in the maritime area

• Archaeological sites indicate both preference by Maori for coastal settlement and areas which are relatively undeveloped or have survived development

• Shows historic settlement pattern of Auckland isthmus

• Sites in Waitakere ranges area indicate 19th century logging and milling of native timbers

• Numerous historic structures in early settlement areas and along transport routes

• Botanical sites tend to represent areas where historic trees have been registered

Regional Cultural Heritage

• Two large greenbelts - the ‘lungs of the city’ – in the west and south: Waitakere Ranges and Hunua Ranges which also form valuable water reservoirs for the region. Both indigenous po-docarp/ broadleaf forests.

• A number of exotic pine production forests utilising marginal farmland and dune lands away from the urban areas

• Large rural area of grassed pastures to north and south of metropolis

• High prevalence of non indigenous vegetation both in urban and rural areas

• Mangrove patches in most main inner harbour areas and upper estuaries including Silverdale

• It is obvious at a glance that Silverdale is a key area largely denuded of vegetation and the area bisected by highways

Hydrology

• Help maintain biodiversity and ecological values

• Important habitats and corridors for wildlife

• Reasonably high concentration north of Orewa, less south of Silverdale and some in the hills west of Silverdale

• Dearth around Silverdale and south to Dairy Flat indicate extensive farm clearance

• Bushlots are covenanted indigenous forest maintained by the owners. Some equate to SNAs

• Notable trees may mean individual protected trees or clusters both indigenous and ex-otic

• SNAs are vital to conserve and create

Significant Natural Areas

• Networked by a number of small catchments

• Land form narrow at this point and the catchments drain to three coastlines- Hauraki Gulf, Kaipara and Waitemata harbours

• The rivers on the east coast form estuarine environments with relatively long tidal reaches- Puhoi, Waiwera, Orewa, Weiti, Okura rivers

• Flood plains in low lying areas and in particular the sandspit of Orewa

• Remnants of Northern Lowlands Forest

Closer Scale Analysis 1:100,000

Vegetation

• Fuller picture than SNAs of green infrastructure

• Large tracts of exotic forest – mainly commercial Pinus radiata

• Only 11% Original native forest in Rodney Ecological Distrist remains

• Well serviced by a regional network hierarchy of roads from motorway to small local roads

• Connected to Auckland by SH1 motorway

• Connected to East Coast Bays by East Coast Rd and Whangaparaoa Peninsula by Hibis-cus Coast Highway

• Connected to Albany by SH17 and west to inland rural villages and the Kaipara Harbour by east-west local roads

RoadsHydrology

Census Information: Income

• Area around Silverdale and Silverdale itself currently have a mixed age range with relatively high number of 30-45 year olds

• This contrasts with Orewa and most of Whangaparaoa Peninsula with their predominance of 65 plus age group

Census Information: Age

• Silverdale, Orewa, Whangaparaoa Peninsula are relatively affluent with incomes of $70,00 - $100,00

• Limited opportunity for affordable housing. (30 - 50K salary range)

Census Information: Transportation

• Large preference for private vehicle transportation across the area

• Company vehicle transport secondary

• Tiny percentage other modes of transport including bus and walking, cycling

• Park and Ride Facility in progress

• West Orewa and West Silverdale have a prevalence of 3-4 bedroom dwellings

• Orewa, Whangaparaoa, Dairy Flat and v mainly 3 bedroom

Census Information: Dwelling occupancyCensus Information: Age

North Auckland Settlement Patterns

The oldest known settlement sites in the Auckland Region are found on the coastline, dat-ing back 800 years they reflect a marine-based society and a seasonal resource-gathering economy. Throughout the pre-European era, fishing and shellfish gathering remained predominant economic activities. As the population grew and made an impact on the ecol-ogy of the region, horticulture became increasingly important. The Maori community was highly mobile with whole communities moving from their horticultural bases in a cycle of hunting, fishing and resource gathering.

The regions first European village developed at Browns Bay on the Mahurangi River where a spar and sawing station was in operation, from that time an increasing number of tim-ber trading vessels visited the region and small villages sprang up along the navigable waterways such as Warkworth (1853) and the Wade (Silverdale 1855) In the early 1860s special settlements were set up by the government eg. Puhoi and Albertland. (Cameron, Hayward, Murdoch 1997).

Transportation to the north of Auckland was at this time limited to the waterways, the first regular ferry services began operating across the Waitemata Harbour in 1881 encouraging growth in Devon-port, Takapuna, Northcote and Birkenhead, as well as the development of a road north. The establishment of the Colonial Sugar Refining Company in 1884 provided employment boosting suburban growth in the Birkenhead / Northcote area. (ARC 2010).

The rail link between Kaukapakapa in the north and Te Awamutu in the south built during the early 1880s transformed the Auckland Regions settlement patterns from waterways to the rail and vil-lages and industry was developed into the inland farming communities, at the end of the decade farming took over from forestry as New Zealand’s main export with the introduction of refrigeration.

Auckland naval activity was developed on the north shore in response to the “Russian Scare” of 1885-86 with a series of fortifications built to defend Auckland ports Fort Takapuna, North Head and Mt Victoria were fortified at this time and a torpedo boat base was established at Devonport. (Cameron, Hayward, Murdoch 1997).

Car ownership and the construction of all-weather bitumen highways became a significant factor of Aucklands suburban expansion, most of the main highways had been surfaced by the1930s, Holi-day settlements also began popping up in the Waitakere Ranges, along the shores of the Manukau Harbour, and around the Hauraki Gulf. Orewa and the Whangaparaoa Peninsula were alsodeveloped as tourist centres during this period. (Brief History of Auckland).

Large waves of external immigration following WW11 combined with internal migration from rural areas combined with the post war baby boom swelled Aucklands population considerably.

Historic Urbanism 1842 - 2008 Auckland Region

Transportation to the north of Auckland was at this time limited to the waterways, the first regular ferry services began operating across the Waitemata Harbour in 1881 encouraging growth in Devon-port, Takapuna, Northcote and Birkenhead, as well as the development of a road north. The establishment of the Colonial Sugar Refining Company in 1884 provided employment boosting suburban growth in the Birkenhead / Northcote area. (ARC 2010).

The rail link between Kaukapakapa in the north and Te Awamutu in the south built during the early 1880s transformed the Auckland Regions settlement patterns from waterways to the rail and vil-lages and industry was developed into the inland farming communities, at the end of the decade farming took over from forestry as New Zealand’s main export with the introduction of refrigeration.

Auckland naval activity was developed on the north shore in response to the “Russian Scare” of 1885-86 with a series of fortifications built to defend Auckland ports Fort Takapuna, North Head and Mt Victoria were fortified at this time and a torpedo boat base was established at Devonport. (Cameron, Hayward, Murdoch 1997).

Car ownership and the construction of all-weather bitumen highways became a significant factor of Aucklands suburban expansion, most of the main highways had been surfaced by the1930s, Holi-day settlements also began popping up in the Waitakere Ranges, along the shores of the Manukau Harbour, and around the Hauraki Gulf. Orewa and the Whangaparaoa Peninsula were alsodeveloped as tourist centres during this period. (Brief History of Auckland).

Large waves of external immigration following WW11 combined with internal migration from rural areas combined with the post war baby boom swelled Aucklands population considerably.

1951 ‘Urban Fence’ Outline Developmant Plan for AucklandIn a effort to consolidate urban growth, the concept of an ‘urban fence’ was introduced in 1951. The plan also proposed a green belt of five mile depth from the boundary of the main urban area, consisting of Okura, Albany, and Greenhithe to the north, and Pakuranga, Wiri and East Tamaki to the south. (ARC 2010).

1955 Master Transportation Plan for Metropolitan AucklandBecause of the already dispersed nature of activities in the region town planners were advised that it would provide greater benefits to develop a radial motorway system (largely based on American models) in the region. (ARC 2010).

1959 Harbour Bridge The Auckland Harbour Bridge opened in 1959, built entirely for motor ve-hicular travel, and with no provision for pedestrians, cyclists or trains. New suburbs emerged on the North Shore through the 1960s such as Birkdale, Beachhaven and Glenfield. This high growth of the North Shore caused traffic chaos and congestion on the Fanshawe Street and Northcote Road, and the four lane harbour bridge soon became inadequate to support the traffic flow (4 new lanes were added in 1969). (ARC 2010).

1961 ‘Regional Development PlanThe Auckland Regional Planning Authority envisaged the creation of an ‘orderly, decentralised met-ropolitan region, comprising a main or parent area surrounded by a cluster of communities. Each of these parent units and cluster communities would have, to varying degrees, its own decentralised functions and would rely on the one metropolitan core for the true metropolitan functions and ser-vices’. Key points of this ‘cluster’ urban form were:• Controlling growth on the urban fringe within a determined long-term boundary.• Providing for further growth in urban units physically and permanently separated from the main city centre.

1967 Regional Master PlanThe Regional Master Plan, prepared for the purpose of accommodating projected population increas-es, envisaged the development of Orewa, Okura, Long Bay, Waimauku, Kumeu, Whitford and Beach-lands within a 20 to 30 year time frame.

1974 Regional Planning SchemeGrowing awareness of urban sprawl directed planning towards developing a com-pact urban form. The direction of urban growth was to be guided in such a way that a ‘multi-linear’ pattern evolved, growth related to the main transportation corridors and coastlines

1975 Alternatives for Future Regional Growth Study

1999 Regional Growth Strategy

1988 Auckland Regional Planning Scheme

2009 Northern Busway

A number of future developments were identified within the proposed urban limit, including Hibiscus Coast, Okura/ Long Bay, Albany, Massey, Hobsonville, Bird-wood, Swanson, Weymouth, Manurewa East, East Tamaki, Flat Bush, Greenhithe, Henderson, and south Titirangi. These areas, along with the existing urban devel-opment, were estimated to accommodate a projected population in excess of 1.1 million by the mid-1990s.

Brought into effect limits to contain the expansion of urban Auckland, and require-ments for sequencing and structure planning of future urban expansion areas.

A compact urban form, with most growth within existing metropolitan area fo-cused around town centres and major transport routes to create higher density communities; Focus on a variety of housing and mixed use activities to provide for employment, services and recreation; Limited managed expansion into green-field areas outside of current Metropolitan Urban Limits (MUL) where environmen-tal quality, accessibility and infrastructure development criteria can be met; Pro-tection of the coast and surrounding natural environment. (ARC 2010)

As a solution to the traffic chaos caused by Auckland Urban sprawl north, in 2009 the northern busway opened. It was credited with having reduced peak traffic on the Northern Motorway, and is estimated to remove the equivalent of about 5,100 cars in the morning peak from the route. The busway includes five dedicated sta-tions, some with extensive car parks, current bus stops are located at Akoranga, Smales Farm, Sunnynook, Constellation Drive, and Albany with a new station planned for Silverdale.

1961 ‘Regional Development PlanThe Auckland Regional Planning Authority envisaged the creation of an ‘orderly, decentralised met-ropolitan region, comprising a main or parent area surrounded by a cluster of communities. Each of these parent units and cluster communities would have, to varying degrees, its own decentralised functions and would rely on the one metropolitan core for the true metropolitan functions and ser-vices’. Key points of this ‘cluster’ urban form were:• Controlling growth on the urban fringe within a determined long-term boundary.• Providing for further growth in urban units physically and permanently separated from the main city centre.

1967 Regional Master PlanThe Regional Master Plan, prepared for the purpose of accommodating projected population increas-es, envisaged the development of Orewa, Okura, Long Bay, Waimauku, Kumeu, Whitford and Beach-lands within a 20 to 30 year time frame.

Form and Character of the Local Communities

River Settlements

These settlement patterns created communities with a distinct character based on their origins, transportation types and econom-ic practices. The typologies of the communities in the region local to our case study area can be described as, river, rural or beach

PuhoiFounded by Catholic Bohemian immigrants as part of the “Colonial Government Settlement Scheme” 18.63-73. Timber extraction via the Puhoi river was the initial Focus, followed by pastoral farming and forestry. Currently considered an historical village.StillwaterStillwater was originally established as a port for transporting kauri logs and gum to Auckland. Orchards were planted in the early 19th century and produce became the main shipping focus. A camping ground has been in place since the end of WW2 making Stillwater a holiday resort for the boating fraternity. Now heavily developed along the western banks a new coastal development is taking place over the river opposite the Stillwater Boat Club.KaukapakapaSettled by mainly English and Scottish immigrants in the 1860s, Kauri milling was the main industry with logs floated down the Kauka-pakapa River to the Kaipara Harbour where they were loaded onto ships for transporting. Later industries included Kauri gum, flax pro-cessing and shipyards. The North Auckland Railway reached Kaukapakapa in 1889 and dairy farming became its main focus. Currently considered a rural village.SilverdaleTimber milling ports servicing Weiti and Orewa rivers, cleared land became farming community.holiday resort for the boating fraternity. Now heavily developed along the western banks a new coastal development is taking place over the river opposite the Stillwater Boat Club.

Beach Settlements

Waiwera, Orewa, Whangaparaoa Waiwera was developed as New Zealand’s first spa and tourist facility, first built in 1844. Steamers began regular services in the 1870s. The Hibiscus Coast became aholiday destination with the construction of a Camping Ground and baches. Now considered the commercial heart of the Hibiscus Coast, Orewa is considered one of the fastest growing places in New Zealand and is one of the most expensive to buy a house.

Rural VillagesDairy Flat, Wainui, WaitokiOriginally saw milling and gum digging towns, cleared land became farms of 40-60 hectares, further subdivision from 2000 – 2009 formed smaller “Lifestyle Blocks” of 2-5 hectares. Although still retaining rural character, Dairy Flat is considered urban in official statis-tics. Wainui and Waitoki are currently considered rural community service villages.

Case Study Area Silverdale

Silverdale village is approximately 30km north of Auckland in the North Island of New Zealand. It is located on the north bank of the Weiti River and lies to the west of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. It was formerly called Wade (a corruption of Weiti) but renamed Silverdale in 1911 because of the many poplar trees in the area at the time and also because it is situated in a dale. State Highway 1 passes to the west of village via the Northern Motorway.

The former State Highway 1 runs south-west to north-east through the village and is now designated State Highway 17. This passes through Ore-wa and Waiwera before joining State Highway 1 at the termination of the motorway south of Puhoi.

The population of Silverdale and its surrounds was 2,070 in the 2006 Cen-sus, an increase of 459 from 2001. There are a number of development plans proposed for different sectors of Silverdale.

History

The Silverdale area was originally settled by Te Kawerau sub tribes, later linked with Ngati Whatua and Ngati Paoa. In 1821 Ngapuhi tribes decimated the locals with guns. The archaeological record of surveyed areas indicate mainly coastal habitation sites in keeping with the Auckland region generally. The first land was sold to a European in 1839 and by 1854 all the land between Okura and Puhoi had been bought by the Crown. Timber logging and milling were the predominant industries and transport was by coastal routes utilis-ing the Orewa and Weiti rivers. Once the bush was cleared farming began in earnest. The small settlement of Wade developed from the

late 1850s – 1900. The oldest surviving wooden building in Silverdale, a chapel, was shipped there from Auckland in 1859.

Proposed District Council Plans There are a number of development plans proposed for different sectors of Silverdale. They include areas to the north, west and south.

Silverdale North Special Zone 19 (2000 Rodney District Plan) incorporates a Live Work Play and Learn environment in a previously green field area. Included are a Garden Residential zone, a mixed commercial area, local and neighbourhood shops, a business park/ knowledge economy zone, an urban park and green linking corridors. Much of this has been constructed or is under way (Millwater development )

Silverdale WestWest of the motorway to SH17 and south to Wilks road was proposed for business activities in a green field area outside the Metro-politan Urban limit (MUL). This was intended to cater for future business land and employment demand in the Rodney and North West Auckland Sector projected to rise by at least 5000 employees between 2011 and 2031 (RDC Silverdale West Background Document, 2009: 14).

Silverdale South Structure PlanCombines proposed industrial, commercial, recreation activities, rural residential and limited business opportunities in an area locat-ed to the east of the northern motorway to just beyond East Coast Bays Road and south of the Weiti River alongside the motorway. (2000 Rodney District Plan Ch 13A.6) This would also extend beyond the MUL to provide more land for business activities to optimise employment potential and decrease the need for residents to travel long distances to work.

More recently Silverdale South Catchment Management Plan was also commissioned to consider development and ecological is-sues in south and west Silverdale (2009)

There are also proposed variations to the DP to introduce a Hibiscus Coast Gateway Recreation and Entertainment Zone and Hibiscus Coast Specialist Retail Zone

Hydrology

• Smaller scale indicates even more clearly Silverdale has dearth of significant natural areas in the case study area

• Exception is the south west coastal area of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula

• Significant Coastal Protection 2 areas in both Orewa and Weiti Rivers

Significant Natural Areas

• Hierarchy of rivers indicates 3 main rivers in case study area

• 2 main rivers under consideration- Orewa and Weiti have 2 main forks and numerous small 2nd and 3rd order side streams

• Orewa and Weiti Rivers have extensive estuarine environments and high tidal reaches

• Floodplains Orewa spit, Whangaparaoa Peninsula and upper Weiti in southern part of catch-ment

Case Study Area Interpretation 1:55,000

Vegetation

• Case study area shows higher prevalence of indigenous veg-etation than exotic, as mapped

• On ground survey indicates rolling wooded pastoral landscape with high number of exotic shelterbelts, wood lots and orna-mental plantings on lifestyle blocks

• Clear indication lack indigenous vegetation of sufficient size for viable habitats and dearth of eco-corridors

• Hierarchy of rivers indicates 3 main rivers in case study area

• 2 main rivers under consideration- Orewa and Weiti have 2 main forks and numerous small 2nd and 3rd order side streams

• Orewa and Weiti Rivers have extensive estuarine environments and high tidal reaches

• Floodplains Orewa spit, Whangaparaoa Peninsula and upper Weiti in southern part of catch-ment

• Small areas of flat land surrounded by ribbons of north and south facing land

• Suggests hillsides running east/west

Slope Aspect

• Large areas of land with less than 5% slope

• Low hill country to the east and west

• Steeper land to the north with some slopes greater than 25%

Roads

• Small areas of flat land surrounded by ribbons of north and south facing land

• Suggests hillsides running east/west

• Main Road (Motorway) runs north/south.

• Two further main (Highway & Arterial) roads link Orewa and Whangaparaoa with the west and south.

• Further major roads run east west.

Aspect

Zoning

• Archaeological sites discovered near waterways

• Historic structures situated along Weiti river show the historic European settlement of Silverdale

• One botanical site identified in case study area, could be a no-table tree

Cultural Heritage

• Bulk of land in target area zoned general rural

• Band of high intensity residential to east of motorway

• Small area of low intensity in centre of high intensity

• Recreation area confined to one part of estuary

Summary of Findings

Green infrastructure

Silverdale and environs exhibit many of the characteristics typical of the Auckland region: low rolling topography, gentle slopes with some higher hill ranges, moderate to limited ar-able soils, outside the volcanic zone, numerous small catchments, a predominance of exotic vegetation and pasture outside the urban settlements, and denuded and degraded water-ways. Silverdale and Orewa rivers and streams descend to coastal estuarine environments and have a mixture of indigenous bush, exotics, and pasture lining their banks. Mangroves are widespread in the tidal reaches of the rivers which have silted up and are less navigable than in earlier times.

Landscape Character

The chosen development area (primarily Silverdale west and south) is typified by rolling pastoral river valleys and hills punctuated by patches of bush, with extensive plantings of shelter belts, wood lots and stands of exotics: mainly pop-lars, pines, willows, cryptomeria, and eucalypts

The landscape character of the industrial area on either side of the tidal reaches of the Weiti has been severely compromised. The natural environment is highly degraded, with a flood prone and poorly presented open space reserve at Wade Landing facing weed infested erosion prone banks below industrial complexes. The river is uninviting and in poor health with no attention to riparian values

The northernmost tributary of the Weiti River west of the motorway has a fine stand of native forest with emergent kauri

New housing developments and schools to the north east of Silverdale have expanded the population and social context.

The cultural history of the area is mainly represented in a constructed Pioneering Village and relocated historic churches near the proposed new town centre apart from the Wade Hotel and the Kelly Homestead.

Built Infrastructure

The historic settlement of Silverdale, based on its setting at the head of navigable river close to the coast was valued by Maori and European alike. European settlement meant large scale clearance for timber and farming.

New housing developments and schools to the north east of Silverdale have expanded the population and social context.

The cultural history of the area is mainly represented in a constructed Pioneering Village and relocated historic churches near the proposed new town centre apart from the Wade Hotel and the Kelly Homestead.

The town has expanded from its centre beside the Weiti River into adjacent hills and flats and provides industrial and commer-cial services for the adjacent settlements of Orewa and Whangaparaoa Peninsula.

The area is well serviced by a complete hi-erarchy of roads from SH1 motorway con-necting the north to Auckland, highways to Orewa and Whangaparaoa and local roads connecting Silverdale to its rural hinterland.

The 2006 Census demographic data in-dicates a relatively high proportion of $70-100,000 incomes across the Silverd-ale environs, an average of 3-4 bedroom dwellings and a high percentage of 30-45 year olds in the more rural parts of the area. Most use private cars and trucks for transport with very little use of public transport, unsurprisingly since there are no express bus ways or park and ride facilities located as yet at Silverdale.

The former Rodney District Council has devel-oped a number of structure plans for develop-ment to the north, west and south of Silverd-ale which involved residential and a new town centre in the northern sector facing Orewa; a knowledge economy zone in the west and an industrial sector in the south with a Park and Ride facility planned adjacent to the motor-way.

LUC/Rivers

Key Determinants Slopes and Rivers

• Main rivers formed at lower end of catchments

• Lower degree of slope in focus area

Slope/Road/River buffer

• High predominance of Class 3-4 soils with moder-ate limitations for arable use in focus area between Orewa and Weiti rivers

• Provision of a 15 metre buffer zone along stream edges - contiguous vegetative habitat

LUC/Rivers

River Park Structure PLan VisionThe overall vision for River Park is a landscape which privileges and en-hances the vital waterways characteristic of the Silverdale area, and the greater Auckland region. The development principles are to provide a rel-evant, cohesive and ecologically sound expansion of the Silverdale area to accommodate Auckland’s growing population

Issues for River Park development

• Any further degradation of vulnerable receiving environments of Orewa and Weiti rivers from urban development in relation to water quality

• Good urban design responsive to natural environment - will affect over-

all amenity values of Silverdale as changes from rural environment • Access to open space and recreational and community facilities

• Diversity manifested through varying lot sizes, building types and styles particularly in high density development

• Sufficient urban parks /open space/ riparian reserves to contribute to physical health, social and cultural well being; and offset development impacts

• Public access along rivers and estuaries balanced with conservation val-ues

• Safe and pleasant environments for walking and cycling through care with road corridors, footpaths and cycle tracks

• Access to public transport

• Commercial areas as relevant focal points so they are used and success-ful

• Visual appeal and amenity values of commercial, industrial, office park

• Respect for identified heritage sites

• Consideration of view shafts

• Ecologically sound storm water solutions

Land Development Suitability - Land to be Retired

• All rivers and main streams to have 30 metre minimum riparian buffer zones

• Estuarine and coastal margins have 30 metre minimum riparian buffer zones

• Land over 45 degrees to be revegetated

• Northern Motorway and Hibiscus Coast Highway to have a landscaped buffer zone

Slope/Road/River/BufferThe overall vision for River Park is a landscape which privileges and en-hances the vital waterways characteristic of the Silverdale area, and the greater Auckland region. The development principles are to provide a rel-evant, cohesive and ecologically sound expansion of the Silverdale area to accommodate Auckland’s growing population

Land Development Suitability - Land to be Retired

• All rivers and main streams to have 30 metre minimum riparian buffer zones

• Estuarine and coastal margins have 30 metre minimum riparian buffer zones

• Land over 45 degrees to be revegetated

• Northern Motorway and Hibiscus Coast Highway to have a landscaped buffer zone

Land to be Utilised

• Review of topography and slope degrees reveals considerable tract of eminently usable land in transect west of the northern motorway from the Orewa River south to Wilks Road.

• High percentage of 0-5 degree s and 5-12 degrees slopes which roll to a network of narrow rivers and streams. Given that building is most suit-able at 15 degrees or less, this area has the most obvious concentra-tions available and connected to Silverdale.

• No Class 1-2 premium soils. Predominant soils in the area are LUC

classes 3-4 indicating soils with moderate limitations for arable use. Further limited by susceptibility to erosion, flooding, sogginess and sa-linity etc. Overall good stability of land though.

• Number of narrow rivers with little or no riparian planting and numerous dried out streams offer opportunity to restore greater ecological health and services to the area in through improved water flow, quality and habitat.

• Relative lack of indigenous vegetation in proposed area offers opportu-nities to improve ecology and create habitat and wildlife corridors.

• Sufficient roading network already to make access realistic and mini-mise large scale earthwork impacts.

• Connected to adjacent centres of Silverdale, Orewa, Whangaparaoa Peninsula and by SH1 to metropolitan Auckland.

Proposed Growth and Development Area

Objectives

• To create a growth area which utilises landscape ecology as a framework

• To create a development pattern which enables restoration and upgrading of river and stream systems while providing attractive and liveable community

• To provide urban growth on land which does not have high agricultural and horticul-tural values but has few building constraints

• To complement and balance the already developed coastal edge eastern of the mo-torway

• To provide a different kind of semi urban living where green biodiversity and amen-ity values are high and based on an appreciation of inland waterways

• To maximise the existing road and built infrastructure of Silverdale

• To connect new settlement to old with green corridors and accessible roads

• To increase the indigenous vegetation in linked corridors which restore ecology and provide habitat and feeding pathways for native birds

• To restore the river water quality values in both the inland waters and coastal ma-rine area

• To provide for the range of commercial, industrial, educational and recreational ac-tivities necessary to sustain a viable residential community

• To create a brown field restoration area to enhance river landscape and amenity val-ues in the old Silverdale village

Development Patterns in the River Park Landscape

• Rivers, streams and flood plains buffered with minimum 30 metre plant-ing and wetland zones

• Starting point for Development – restored river and stream environ-ments as key part of landscape ecology framework

• 15-20 or wider buffers regarded as self sustaining for indigenous veg-etation

• Increases habitat in terrestrial and water environment

• Increases water quality of streams and wetlands and downstream to coastal marine area

• Provides corridors for birds and wildlife

• Links lowland, freshwater and coastal habitats

• Reduces flooding

• Reduces pollution from run off

• Improves aesthetic and landscape values

• Provides a shady pleasant walking, cycling, amenity area if buffer wide enough to balance with conservation values

• Riparian zones most effective in small stream and tributaries- greater influence on catchment areas than relative size

Hydrology Buffer Zone

River Park Residential development

Medium - High Density Zone

• 250 -300 sqm lot sizes (40- 33 per ha) alongside extensive tracts of riparian river reserves or landscaped open space

• Mostly north west facing, toward the riverine environment and backed by generous open space

• River/stream and open space settings offset the greater intensity of built form

• Adjacent recreational opportunities, stream walks and cycle tracks

• Green affordable housing on the flatter valley floor close to nature

Low Density Zone

• Larger areas of 2500 sqm metre lot sizes (4 per ha) on average on the valley

• Flats and gentle slopes

• Buffered from the higher density housing and other zones by land-scaped open space

• Also close to the natural environment, river and stream setting, recrea-tional opportunities

• Higher cost larger houses and gardens

River Park Residential development

Medium - High Density Zone

• 250 -300 sqm lot sizes (40- 33 per ha) alongside extensive tracts of riparian river reserves or landscaped open space

• Mostly north west facing, toward the riverine environment and backed by generous open space

• River/stream and open space settings offset the greater intensity of built form

• Adjacent recreational opportunities, stream walks and cycle tracks

• Green affordable housing on the flatter valley floor close to nature

• Office park runs either side northern motorway , south of Orewa River to the upper tributary of the Weiti River and then south west of its lower tributary to and along SH17

• Secondary SH1 off ramp necessary for easy access

• Condition of Lot development on motorway edges to included landscape buffering

• West of office park is zoned landscaped open space as a visual buffer between residential and business areas

• SW area from SH1 and along SH17 the office park is adjacent to com-mercial areas for practical convenience and accessibility

• Provides for clean industry in park like setting close to motorway, resi-dential and service areas

• Extends proposed business zone to either side of motorway to make better use of motorway access and provide an employment area for both east and west Silverdale

• Generous allocation of open space to buffer development zones

• Provides rivers of green to keep feel of rural /natural environment

• Landscaped with indigenous and exotics as well including poplars in keeping with the current natural character which provides sense of place

• Provides visual contrast and relief from built form

• Helps retain sense of openness characteristic of current environment

• Park environment complements re vegetated inland waterways of western Silverdale and the coastal marine areas to east

Landscaped Open Space /Parkland River Park Business Zone

Future Development Zone

• Eastern side of SH1 In South Silverdale

• Provides for future business growth

• Office park runs either side northern motorway , south of Orewa River to the upper tributary of the Weiti River and then south west of its lower tributary to and along SH17

• Secondary SH1 off ramp necessary for easy access

• Condition of Lot development on motorway edges to included landscape buffering

• West of office park is zoned landscaped open space as a visual buffer between residential and business areas

• SW area from SH1 and along SH17 the office park is adjacent to com-mercial areas for practical convenience and accessibility

• Provides for clean industry in park like setting close to motorway, resi-dential and service areas

• Extends proposed business zone to either side of motorway to make better use of motorway access and provide an employment area for both east and west Silverdale

• 3 locations close to roads and relevant mixed use

• Northern commercial area to service local residential development

• Eastern commercial south of Hibiscus Coast Highway and east of SH1 to edge of in-dustrial zone

• Southern commercial located between office park and the ridge of SH17, adjacent to tertiary zone

• Northern local /neighbourhood shops

• Northern also partially buffered visually by riparian reserve and open space but also open to Wainui Road

• Eastern provides for variety of commercial enterprises close to old Silverdale centre and reinforces existing development and plans

River Park Commercial Zone

Weiti River Brown field development zone

• River poor flushing qualities, susceptible to degradation requiring mitigation of adverse effects

• River riparian planting and open space/ park land to improve environmental values

• Offers opportunity to provide more attractive mixed use than currently, including resi-dential, beside the river

• Better use of the landscape and potential restoration of amenity values

• Helps restore old heart of Silverdale to a wider variety of uses

• Pedestrian and local traffic connection essential from this area to rest of old Silverdale

River Park Business Zone

The Auckland region is predicted to grow significantly by 2030. This strategy has focused on how to provide for growth that is appropriate, relevant and connected to other settlements in the region; uses a landscape ecology framework and employs good urban design principles.

A process of analysis and examination of key landscape elements in the Auckland region at a macro scale and the environs of Silverdale at a more micro scale, reveals a narrow land form, highly in-dented coastlines, relatively low topography and numerous catchments feeding rivers and small streams.

The region is dominated by waterways both inland and through its many estuarine environments connected to the three defining harbours. However many of the region’s waterways have been de-pleted and degraded through historic timber milling, farming practices and increasingly, urban development. Most rivers have become polluted and many streams barely exist. Their vital eco ser-vices have been poorly recognised and often their aesthetic and landscape values ill perceived.

The focus of early settlement and ongoing urban development has favoured the coastal edges, particularly the sheltered eastern shores. Inland river valleys have been less preferred and the pre-serve of lifestyle blocks/countryside living.

This project by contrast uses inland waterways as a starting point for considering the development of a new growth area. Based on analysis of Silverdale and environs which echoes many of the landscape ecology features of the region, this strategy has a theme of rivers and streamside living. This has a dual function. By restoring and enhancing rivers and streams back into healthy living riverscapes, aesthetic and landscape values are also restored creating more attractive environments for significant numbers of people to live. Indigenous re vegetation in the riparian reserves will further restore natural values.

The concept is a focus on inland river valleys which recognises their vital and continuous presence and makes the most of them. Attractive design is proposed which is responsive to the natural envi-ronment and enhances it rather degrades or destroys it.

The identified river valleys, mainly west of Silverdale were chosen for a number of reasons. Employing a landscape ecology framework demonstrates that with only moderately arable soils, low rolling open slopes, networked waterways and a lack of indigenous cover, there is a great opportunity to develop in a desirable way. Their proximity to Silverdale both the old centre and new developments in process, make an extension westward logical and already connected. This concept is reinforced by the northern motorway which currently has growth focused on the eastern sector oriented to-ward the coast. This constitutes under utilisation of opportunities that SH1 access provides in connecting to other centres and metropolitan Auckland. While the development would be outside the current MUL , this is a logical area to expand into and still keep a compact urban form which includes Orewa, and Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The inclu-sion of large areas of landscaped open space in the design features of this river valley living also provide a transitional kind of development pattern from urban to rural.

The restoration of inland water ways health will also have significant downstream effects on the degraded Orewa and Weiti Rivers, including part of the industrial area located on the banks of the Weiti at the historic Wade landing in old Silverdale. Brown field redevelopment here will restore some aesthetic and landscape values and connect to old Silverdale village with lively mixed use. The concept has provision for a good range of mixed uses to increase residential and employment numbers and make Silverdale a useful and significant hub in the Auckland region. Compact eco-logical growth will result rather than sprawl.

This strategy provides for appreciation and enjoyment of rivers and streams and the values they bring.

• Attractive southern gateway to Silverdale

• Between SH1 and SH17 and Wilks Rd at southern edge

• Catchment study indicates flood plain and stability constraints on 43% of site

• Slopes less than 8 degrees 34%

• Riparian planting to include 30m either side of flood plain and wetlands

• Landscaped campus internally and at motorway boundary

• Provides learning and business opportunities

• Spacious landscape setting good transition from rural to built area

Tertiary Zone- River Park University /Unitec campus

Park and Ride Zone

• Located in SE transect of motorway off ramp

• Will connect River Park/Silverdale better to the Auckland metropolis

Summary

Weiti River Industrial Zone

• Abuts commercial zone and Hibiscus Coast highway to the west

• Buffered and bounded by riparian Weiti River tributary to East

• Leaves most of heavily built existing industrial area but excludes main Weiti river border zone

• Provides necessary industrial business employment but softens land-scape impact a little

The Auckland region is predicted to grow significantly by 2030. This strategy has focused on how to provide for growth that is appropriate, relevant and connected to other settlements in the region; uses a landscape ecology framework and employs good urban design principles.

A process of analysis and examination of key landscape elements in the Auckland region at a macro scale and the environs of Silverdale at a more micro scale, reveals a narrow land form, highly in-dented coastlines, relatively low topography and numerous catchments feeding rivers and small streams.

The region is dominated by waterways both inland and through its many estuarine environments connected to the three defining harbours. However many of the region’s waterways have been de-pleted and degraded through historic timber milling, farming practices and increasingly, urban development. Most rivers have become polluted and many streams barely exist. Their vital eco ser-vices have been poorly recognised and often their aesthetic and landscape values ill perceived.

The focus of early settlement and ongoing urban development has favoured the coastal edges, particularly the sheltered eastern shores. Inland river valleys have been less preferred and the pre-serve of lifestyle blocks/countryside living.

This project by contrast uses inland waterways as a starting point for considering the development of a new growth area. Based on analysis of Silverdale and environs which echoes many of the landscape ecology features of the region, this strategy has a theme of rivers and streamside living. This has a dual function. By restoring and enhancing rivers and streams back into healthy living riverscapes, aesthetic and landscape values are also restored creating more attractive environments for significant numbers of people to live. Indigenous re vegetation in the riparian reserves will further restore natural values.

The concept is a focus on inland river valleys which recognises their vital and continuous presence and makes the most of them. Attractive design is proposed which is responsive to the natural envi-ronment and enhances it rather degrades or destroys it.

The identified river valleys, mainly west of Silverdale were chosen for a number of reasons. Employing a landscape ecology framework demonstrates that with only moderately arable soils, low rolling open slopes, networked waterways and a lack of indigenous cover, there is a great opportunity to develop in a desirable way. Their proximity to Silverdale both the old centre and new developments in process, make an extension westward logical and already connected. This concept is reinforced by the northern motorway which currently has growth focused on the eastern sector oriented to-ward the coast. This constitutes under utilisation of opportunities that SH1 access provides in connecting to other centres and metropolitan Auckland. While the development would be outside the current MUL , this is a logical area to expand into and still keep a compact urban form which includes Orewa, and Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The inclu-sion of large areas of landscaped open space in the design features of this river valley living also provide a transitional kind of development pattern from urban to rural.

The restoration of inland water ways health will also have significant downstream effects on the degraded Orewa and Weiti Rivers, including part of the industrial area located on the banks of the Weiti at the historic Wade landing in old Silverdale. Brown field redevelopment here will restore some aesthetic and landscape values and connect to old Silverdale village with lively mixed use. The concept has provision for a good range of mixed uses to increase residential and employment numbers and make Silverdale a useful and significant hub in the Auckland region. Compact eco-logical growth will result rather than sprawl.

This strategy provides for appreciation and enjoyment of rivers and streams and the values they bring.

Case Study Waterway Living- Ecolonia

Ecolonia is a neighbourhood in the city of Alphen aan gen Rijn in the west of the Netherlands, constructed on a 2.7 hectare Greenfield site. Completed in 1992, it is a demonstration project for ecological living. Consisting of 101 residential units, Ecolonia was planned by NOVEM (The Netherlands Agency for Energy and the Environment) and part funded by the Dutch Government. A wide range of architects were challenged to create solar, energy-efficient, healthy houses, with maximum durability and recyclability of building materials and effec-tive provision for water collection, use and on-site drainage. (Bar-ton, 2000)Ecolonia demonstrates a wide range of ecological building ideas and techniques, including green roofs on some units, energy conserving features, use of recycled building materials, solar hot water, rainwa-ter collection and its use in toilet flushing, car washing and garden watering.

The development is designed around a small lake, which serves as a recreational resource as well as a collection point for surface run-off. All surface water is discharged to the lake allowing direct replenish-ment of groundwater resources and reducing high water peaks in the main sewerage system.Set back from the lake area are streets and small squares each with its own identity and each using individual materials and architec-tural styles. There are small communal gardens which local resi-dents have determined the use and design of. The aim is to create a stimulating environment with areas of strong identity with which the residents can identify.Streets are designed along the lines of the Woonerf principles of the 1970s: cars are permitted within the development, but there are no through routes, and residents are encouraged to park on the edge of town and give priority in the street to children, pedestrians and cyclists. Residents are encouraged to recycle household waste either at cen-tral recycling points or within the house. (ELASA UN Paper 1996)

References

Auckland Regional Council, Social and Economic Research and Monitoring Team, A brief history of Auckland’s Urban Form April 2010. Retrieved from http://www.arc.govt.nz

Auckland Regional Policy Statement Maps 1, 2, 5 1999

Barton, H. (1996) Sustainable Communities – The potential for eco-neighbourhoods

Bradbury, Matthew (2011, Jan 13) Cleaning up harbours could transform city. The New Zealand Herald, Retrieved from http://www.nzherald.co.nz

Coastal sprawl will defy plan for Auckland (2011, March 24) New Zealand Herald, Retrieved from http://www.nzherald.co.nz

Cameron, E., & Hayward, B., & Murdoch, G. (1997). A Field Guide to Auckland Exploring the Regions Natural and Historic Heritage. Auckland: Random House

ELASA UN, (1996) Ecolonia, Alphen aan den Rijn, Holland Urban Design and Construction. Retrieved from elasa.org/archive/archive1/UN96/UN96-9.html

Grover, R (1996) The story of Silverdale….. Alias The Wade 1839 – 1853. Auckland: Rodney District Council

North Shore City District Plan, Proposed Variation 66 and Plan Change 6, Long Bay Structure Plan – Stage 2

Regional Growth Forum, Auckland Regional Growth Strategy 2050 A Vision for Managing Growth in the Auckland region, ARC, Auckland, 1999

Regional Growth Forum, Metropolitan Urban Limits in the Auckland region. Impact on land prices, ARC, Auckland 1999

Riparian Zone Management, Strategy, Guideline, Planting Guide, ARC Auckland 2001

Rodney District Council, District Plan 2000

Rodney District Council, Silverdale South Structure Plan 2000

Rodney District Council, Silverdale South Catchment Management Plan 2009

Sustainable Cities Trust, Sustainable Cities Auckland Congress Proceedings, Auckland 2002

Toy, Richard H. (1976) Auckland: Water City of the South Pacific. New Dreamland: Writing New Zealand Architecture

Historic Black and White Photographs of Silverdale provided by Silverdale Historic Village

All other Landscape Photography – Jill Pierce

River Park: Mixed Use Development Plan

River Park: Mixed Use Development Plan

Studio 6225, Assignment 2, Cora Lawton 1176872

Contents

Introduction

Existing Waterways

Existing Landform

Study Area

Previous Development Strategy Plan

Anaylis Maps

Developable Areas

Development Zones

Study Area

Study Area Development Zones

Water Collection

Development

Master Plan

Final Development with Existing Vegetation

Connections to the Wider Area

Pedestrian and Traffic Flow

Water Flow

Plants

Introduction

Futher to the previous Silverdale Growth Strategy plan, River Park Concept, this mixed use development plan was created at a smaller scale of 50 hectares. The design concept followed previous design strategies of enhancing and living along-side degraded rivers and streams.

The design is based on the analysis of the existing landscape and all of it’s features including roads, landform, vegetation etc. It is development by landscape that is designed to create a resilient community and enhance the environment by creat-ing stronger connections with the broader landscape and repairing the degraded waterways.

These photos of my chosen site emphasise just how degraded the rivers and streams are area. They all lack river buffering and action needs to be taken promptly to plant their edges. This will protect the water ways and filter the polluted water entering them and enhance living environments for organisms utilising them.

Exisiting Waterways

Existing Landform

These photos of the study area show the gentle rolling landscape in the area. It also provides connections for birds, but generally lacks in native vegetation. The vegetation that is provided is generally exotic trees such as Macrocarpa and lacks understory plantings that provide living environs for native species.

Study Area

This map shows the location of the study area in comparison with the wider area. The black box outlines the area of the previous study.

Previous Development Strategy Plan

This map shows the study area (black outline) in comparison to the previous Growth Stategy Plan for Silverdale.

Rivers

Roads

Ridge Lines

Land UseAnalysis Maps

These analysis maps show the existing landscape features in the study area that were analysed to create the final plan. The river map shows the area con-tains four rivers that flow into the Orewa river. From the ridge map you can see the direction the water runs into their surrounding rivers. There is also quite a dominant road running through top half of the site that currently has no connection to the motorway, but an off ramp and on ramp have been allowed for in future planning by the council. The vegetation map shows the area is dominated by grass land, with a few patches of manuka and kanuka forest and indigenous forest.

Lots

Soils

Slope

AspectAnalysis Maps

The property sizes in the area are quite large. The slope map shows there are very few areas that contain a slope exceeding 15 de-grees, making it very developable. The soil is also perfect for develop-ment as it is ultic. The aspect in the area is pretty mixed, but a majority of the cooler aspects (south and southwest) are over existing bush.

Combination Roads/Rivers/Vegetation

Developable Area 2

Developable Area 1

Developable Area 3Developable Areas

The developable areas were pro-duced by layering the analysis maps and buffering the rivers by 30m. The existing vegetation was retained; slopes, south and southwest aspect areas were also excluded from developable areas. This was to prevent the amount of cutting and filling in the area and also provide good aspects for houses to be built on. From the Developable Area 3 map you can see a section of south/southwest aspect has been left in as this is a commercial area and aspect isn’t as important as it is in housing areas.

Development ZonesPark Land

Medium Density Housing

High Density Housing

Office Park and Commercial

These development zones were realized by creating a 120m buffer around the rivers for high den-sity development (river living, a strategy from previous Silverdale Growth Strategy plan). Parklands were then created by having a minimum distance of 100m between the high density areas and medium density areas. This creates a division between the two developments and allows occupants who live in the high density areas easy access to parklands or open grounds for relaxation or recreation purposes. The office park zone was located next to the motorway allowing for

easy access to the main arterial route. The commercial is also in close location of the motorway so residents in the area easily access the area from the motorway and it provides good connections with wider the area, so people could walk to the local shops. This com-mercial area will be quite a small one to meet the demands of the immediate surrounding community.

Study AreaLots

High Density, Rivers and Roads

Study Area

Refined Lot Design

These maps zoom in on the area more to a 50 Hectare patch. The lots were placed within the appropriate development areas. The high density zones contain lots of 200sqm and the medium density zones contain lots of 250sqm. The high density lots face the rivers whilst the medium den-sity areas face east-northeast.The development zones were refined once the maximum amount of lots were place on the areas without breaching their zone boundaries.The bottom map shows the final high density zones in relation to roads and rivers.

Study Area Development ZonesMedium Density Commercial

Final Development Plan Final Devolment Plan with blocks representing buildings

Each development zone has been layered onto these perspectives to represent what the overall site development will look like once each development zone is completed.

Overland Flow Path

Overland Flow Path

Collection Ponds

Water CollectionCollection Ponds

As the rivers in the area are in such a bad state it is vital action be taken to remediate it. The flow path map shows the area in which the water flows over the land. The collection ponds were placed in areas where the flows met so they can filter the pollutants before the water reaches the rivers. The col-lection ponds will be like wetlands, planted with native plant species like cabbage trees, manuka, oioi, flaxes and carex grasses. These plants will also help with biodiversity in the area.

Development

The roads in the development were created by connecting them to the existing road structure. The roads are quite wide in residential zones (13-20m) to allow for park-ing and swales to collect water. These swales will also be planted with native wetland species along with specimen trees (cabbage trees or nikaus).

Specimen TreesRoads and Swales

Low Density Housing High Density Housing

Master Plan

The Master Plan shows how the High Denstiy areas are concen-trated around the rivers, with the commercial area centrally located. The Parkland in the area is vast, this allows the occupants of the area to utilise it for recreation whilst it enhances ecology and the connection with the broader land-scape. The Parkland will provide new habitats for native species and increase the biodiversity. This design differs from others it allows people to live within walk-ing distance of water, a classic kiwi desire.

Final Development with existing Vegetation

These perspectives demonstrate how the site will look in combina-tion with the existing vegetation. As a majority of the existing plants are canopy species they will be enhanced with native under plantings.

Connections to the wider Area

This map illustrates the connec-tions to the existing development in the area and the motorways (red arrows). It will be easily accessed once the construction of the on ramp and off ramp are completed. The Commercial zone still remains centralised and can easily accessed by the residents of the existing development. A walk way would also be constructed under the bridge by the Orewa river to allow pedestrian exchange between the two areas.

Pedestrian and Traffic Flow

This map demonstrates how easily accessible the park areas will be for residents. The High Density zones have a break in the house approx. every 100m so people don’t have to walk so far to access the Parkland. Pedestrian access will also be made across rivers with bridges, allowing people to walk to the Commercial zone. Pedestrian access will also be cre-ated across roads (with pedestrian crossings). This design is based more on pedestrian traffic rather than vehicle traffic. The arrows on the road show how the new roads will connect with the existing.

Water Flow

This map shows how the overland water flows (blue arrows) will collect in the collection ponds, which will filter the water and remove the polluntants before it enters the rivers. The swales will aslo be connected to the collection ponds.

Plants

Rhopalostylis sapida, nikau. To be used as a specimen and under planting.

Carex secta. Utilised as a wetland and streamside plant.

Coprosma robusta, karamu. Utilised as a under planting for exiting planted areas.

Baumea articulata, joint-ed twig rush. Utilised in wetland plantings.

Carpodetus serratus, putaputawheta. Utilised in wetland and understo-rey plantings.

Cordyline australis, cab-bage tree. Utilised as a specimen tree and in wetland plantings.

Hebe stricta, koromiko. To be used as a understo-rey plant.

Leptospermum scoparium, manuka. To be used in wet-land plantings.

Griselinia littoralis, broadleaf. Utilised as an understorey plant.

Macropiper excelsum, kawakawa. To be used as a understorey plant.

Apodasmia similis, oi oi. To be used in wetland plantings.

Phormium tenax, flax. To be used in wetland and under-storey plantings.

Terraced Housing

As the High Density property sizes are small, the best suited style of housing is terraced. These houses will be built with concrete base-ments so they are flood resistant. The 2 storey design of these houses still allows the residents to live in a larger house, but on a smaller section, making the area more affordable to live in.

This design will significantly con-tribute ecologically to the area whilst providing low cost, afford-able houses for people to reside in. The high density river living is unlike any other design and it al-lows New Zealanders to live close to the water, a typical kiwi desire. The vast parklands will enhance the biodiversity in the area and by retaining the existing vegetation, connection to the wider landscape will not be jeopardised. The area is well connected for vehicular and pedestrian access, with a major-ity of the facilities within walking distance. This design will improve the area vastly.

Conclusion