Catherine Plaza reopens after upgrade
19 February 2026
- Henderson
- News
- Urban regeneration
Catherine Plaza has officially reopened.
The opening reveals a refreshed and welcoming public space designed to support Henderson’s growing community and revitalise the town centre.
Auckland Council, in partnership with Henderson Massey Local Board and mana whenua, delivered the upgrade as part of a wider investment in Henderson’s future. The improvements aim to support local businesses, enhance public safety, and create a more vibrant, people friendly destination in the heart of the town centre.
A welcoming new look
Visitors to the upgraded plaza will find a completely redesigned space featuring an open, inviting entrance and a boardwalk that weaves through native planting while preserving the existing tree canopy.
Safety and visibility were key priorities throughout the design process. New festoon lighting and pathway lighting, along with CCTV, have been installed to create a safer environment both day and night. Integrated seating and informal play areas now provide spaces for the community to relax, meet, and spend time.
The western end of the plaza has also been reshaped to accommodate outdoor dining for nearby businesses, activating the space and supporting local hospitality operators.
“It’s great to see Catherine Plaza reopened in such a welcoming new form. The improved lighting makes it feel much safer, and it’s now a space our community can truly enjoy.
“We’d like to thank nearby businesses for their patience throughout the construction work. It’s absolutely been worth the wait,”
Henderson-Massey Local Board chair, Chris Carter.
Shaped by partnerships
The design was developed in collaboration with Te Kawerau ā Maki and draws inspiration from the Waitākere Ranges. This connection acknowledges West Auckland’s deep cultural and environmental ties to this significant taonga.
Community input also played a central role. Feedback was gathered from local groups including NZ Police, the Salvation Army, WestCity retailers, local businesses, and community organisations. These insights informed key elements such as seating and dining areas, play features, planting choices, colour, and lighting for both safety and ambience.
Safety and accessibility at the forefront
To ensure the upgraded plaza is inclusive and safe for everyone, the project team undertook both a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment and an accessibility review during the design phase. These assessments helped refine the layout, lighting, and material choices to improve visibility, accessibility, and user experience.
“Catherine Plaza is a great example of what can be achieved when we work closely with our partners and the community. This upgrade not only strengthens the connection between people and the heart of Henderson, but also creates a safer, more welcoming space that reflects the area’s identity and aspirations.
It’s fantastic to see the plaza reopened and already bringing new life and activity into the town centre.”
Auckland Urban Development Office, Priority Location Director, Richard Davison.
Part of a wider vision for Henderson
The reopening of Catherine Plaza marks an important milestone within the broader Unlock Henderson High Level Project Plan, approved in 2017. The plan sets out long term initiatives to improve liveability, attract new businesses, and create a thriving, connected town centre.
With its modern design, enhanced safety features, and strong integration of community values, the revitalised Catherine Plaza is expected to attract more people into the area and bring renewed energy to central Henderson.
The project’s completion was marked with a dawn karakia led by mana whenua earlier in the week.