Wynyard Central

Architectus has been involved in the creation of the Wynyard Quarter Urban Design Framework for the past 15 years; a fundamental premise of that document is to build on the character of the Wynyard Quarter into the future. The challenge with adding to the neighbourhood is to respect the character imbued into the precinct by the marine and fishing industry and the industrial quality that exists in many of the heritage buildings that are being retained. Wynyard Central must add to and complement this character. The project is part of an integrated, cohesive master plan. The plan’s ambition is to bring the outside in, connect to spaces and uses within the wider waterfront precinct and to form neighbourhoods within neighbourhoods, in the themes of green, gritty and blue. The result will be a precinct with many layers, integrated yet flexible. Housing has been designed for a variety of residents, with a particular emphasis on the development of family residences, through considered space planning as well as child friendly amenities and safe outdoor spaces. Sustainability principles permeate every aspect of the design and include integrated and green roof planting which has been developed in consultation with local Iwi. Public spaces are celebrated, and ground floor edges are activated and engaging with artworks by Maaka Potini of Ngati Tamaoho. Wynyard Central is the first large-scale, multi-unit residential development in New Zealand to be awarded 7 and 8 Homestar certification ratings. It will pay a pivotal role in the wider Wynyard Quarter ‘Smart Precinct’. Wynyard Central is home to a mosaic of lives and activity, interwoven and independent, in a thriving waterfront context. Location: Auckland Completion: 2018