Drury - connecting Auckland

Drury sits at a critical point in the upper North Island’s transport network — sitting to the south of Auckland on the Waikato border, it links Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga along what’s often referred to as the Golden Triangle.

Its success as a regional connector will rely on targeted upgrades to support growing demand. In particular, the evolution of State Highway 1 and State Highway 22 will be key to ensuring safe, efficient movement of people and freight.

Over the past decade, the foundations for Drury’s transformation have been quietly and steadily established. With key infrastructure in motion and planning frameworks in place and significant investment from Crown, council and the private sector, Drury is a very real proposition to connect people, business and regions. 

The area presents a rare opportunity to approach growth in a different way — one that grows not just in size, but in the creation of communities, connection to the land and place, and significant economic impact and value over time. 

Key milestones to date:

• 2016 – Auckland Unitary Plan and Mill Road designation confirm intent for long-term growth
• 2020 onwards – Investment through the NZ Upgrade Programme enables critical road and rail infrastructure
• 2023–2025 – Construction ramps up; early stages of development begin
• 2025+ – New homes and employment opportunities emerge
• 2035+ – Strategic employment anchors, including Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, come online.

What’s Taking Shape in Drury

Homes and Neighbourhoods

Drury will be home to more than 25,000 new dwellings, supporting a future population of over 60,000 residents.

Jobs and Economic Opportunity

Between 13,000 and 30,000 jobs are expected to emerge in and around Drury over time. These will be driven by industries such as logistics, healthcare, education, and advanced manufacturing.

Auckland Council’s Role

Auckland Council plays a central role in guiding the long-term development of Drury. Through its planning frameworks, infrastructure investment in water, waste water, stormwater and transport connections, and partnerships with mana whenua, government, and the private sector, Council helps ensure that growth is coordinated, sustainable, and aligned with the needs of current and future communities. Its work supports not just housing and transport, but the social infrastructure — parks, public spaces, libraries, community facilities — that shape how people experience and connect with the places they call home.