Emily Place improvements

About the project

The proposed improvements align with the City Centre Masterplan, which focuses on making better use of city centre spaces and improving the quality of the environment.

The key objectives are to:

• Deliver a quality, accessible, attractive, distinctive and desirable public place
• Create a destination that celebrates and responds to the cultural heritage and built form of the area
• Provide a space that empowers local community-led  lacemaking and activation opportunities.

Design update

We are pleased to share the final design for the Emily Place Improvements Project, which aims to provide a more people‑focused environment.

We’ve now completed the detailed design phase - an important step that prepares the project for construction. The overall direction and character of the project remains consistent with the previous design update.

This final design has been developed through detailed engineering and technical coordination to meet relevant standards and operational requirements.

We’ve also been working through the necessary approval processes and site investigations to enable construction to begin.

You can explore the design in more detail through the design pack, which includes:

A snapshot of the final design
Key changes since the preliminary design
Detailed design information
Illustrative views (artist impressions) of how the space will look

View the final design here.  

Partnering with Mana Whenua

In partnership with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and Ngāti Maru, the design incorporates cultural elements that recognise and celebrate Te Rerenga Ora Iti (the former headland), the original shoreline, and the area’s native flora and fauna. 

These are expressed through:

• Mahi toi (artworks), cultural plinths and feature seating that reflect local narratives and identity
• Carefully placed kōhatu (stones) to support storytelling, spatial definition and informal gathering
• Integrated native planting and trees that reconnect the site with its natural landscape.

Community engagement on concept design

Community consultation on the draft concept plan wrapped up in October 2023. 

• Read the engagement report here.
• Find out what we did with your feedback here.
• View the concept plan here. 
• View the Preliminary Design here
• View the final design here.

What happens next?

The design for the Emily Place Improvements Project is now complete, and the project is moving into the construction preparation and procurement phase.

Construction start date, duration and staging will be finalised following procurement, in collaboration with the selected construction contractor. This will take into account other construction activity in the area and the findings from the Community Impact Assessment. Subject to approvals, the construction contractor is expected to be appointed in late 2026. 

We will continue to keep you updated as the project progresses.