3. Background
CRL Designations
On 5 March 2014, Independent Hearing Commissioners released their recommendation in respect of six NoRs lodged by the Requiring Authority, Auckland Transport (AT), pursuant to section 168(2) of the RMA, to enable the construction, operation and maintenance of the proposed CRL project. The recommendation was that the NoRs be confirmed without modification, in terms of scope, but subject to conditions.
On 28 April 2015, AT released its decision to confirm the main CRL NoRs subject to conditions. This decision was appealed by various parties. In November 2015, the Environment Court released the final decision in the Tram Lease case and the determination of consent orders in the other cases.
City Rail Link Limited (CRLL) were confirmed as a Requiring Authority pursuant to section 167 of the RMA on 10 August 2017.
While the CRLL Designation 2500 was confirmed by the Environment Court as a designation under the financial responsibility of AT on 10 November 2015, this responsibility was transferred to CRLL via Auckland Council (AC) in accordance with section 47(3) of the Local Government (Auckland Council) Act 2009. This transfer was completed on 12 October 2017.
Resource Consents
Independent Hearing Commissioners approved a package of regional consents for the CRL works for Aotea Station to the North Auckland Line (A2N) on 18 November 2016. A single appeal against this consent package was lodged with the Environment Court on 9 December 2016. On 22 March 2017, the Court determined that the A2N regional consent package could commence with respect to the area identified by the Court. The proposed works are located within this identified area and as such can be undertaken under the authorisation of the A2N regional consents.
Two subsequent applications to vary the existing conditions of the A2N regional consents were lodged by Link Alliance in 2020. The first (WAT60152222-A) sought to alter conditions to enable the permanent drawdown of groundwater for tunnelling works throughout the Aotea to NAL section of the CRL project, subject to appropriate management and mitigation of effects. The second (DIS60083739-A) sought to remove the 24m3 limit on outdoor stockpiling of materials within the Construction Support Areas and Active Construction Zones within the Aotea to NAL extent of the CRL project.
Both of these applications were assessed and considered to be generally within the existing envelope of effects as assessed, anticipated and authorised through the granting of the A2N consents, and were subsequently granted by Auckland Council.
Additional regional resource consents (DIS60354169 and DIS60366005) were separately granted authorising the discharge of contaminants to air from the operation of a concrete crusher unit and the temporary use of a generator within the Mt Eden Construction Support Area, respectively.
NES Consents
The A2N regional consent package includes consent under the National Environmental Standard for Assessing and Managing Contaminants in Soil to Protect Human Health Regulations 2011 (NESsoil).
Staged approach to Outline Plans
CRLL is using a staged outline plan approach to facilitate the construction of the CRL. Council understands that this approach aligns with the design and construction programme. Preceding works along the Aotea to NAL section of the CRL project were authorised through previous Outline Plans:
• Aotea Stage 1-3 Early Works (OPW60345651)
• Aotea Stage 4-5 Early Works (OPW60348747)
• Karangahape Station Early Works (OPW60347591)
• Mt Eden Enabling Works (OPW60350039)
• Normanby Road Early Works (OPW60351423)
• Karangahape Station Main Works (OPW60352495)
• Aotea Station Main Works (OPW60354612)
• Mt Eden Station Main Works (OPW60359489) (including Porters Ave Footbridge)
• Tunnelling Construction Works (OPW60366764)
• Aotea Station Public Realm Reinstatement (OPW60389911)
• Mt Eden Station Public Realm Reinstatement (OPW60391638)
Karangahape Station Public Realm Reinstatement (OPW60394545). This OPW is submitted for the remaining public realm reinstatement works at Maungawhau Station and is supported by the Maungawhau Station: Stage 2 Public Realm Works Urban Design DWP (Appendix A of the OPW), which is being submitted for the first time in accordance with the staged approach.
Addendums to the existing Mt Eden Main Works CEMP and Communication and Consultation Plan (CCP) have been prepared to support the OPW, alongside the preceding Mt Eden Main Works CEMP and CCP, and the Stage 1 CEMP and CCP addenda, to manage the effects of the Stage 2 Works. CRLL is relying on, or deferring to, the following Mt Eden Main Works DWPs to manage the actual and potential effects of the Stage 2 Works:
• Social Impact and Business Disruption DWP;
• Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP);
• Air Quality DWP / Air Quality Management Plan;
• Trees and Vegetation DWP;
• Transport, Access and Parking DWP
o TAP DWP – Stage 1 Addendum
• Construction noise and Vibration DWP
o Construction Noise and Vibration Management Plan – Stage 1 Addendum
• Contamination DWP / Contaminated Soils Management Plan; and
• Industrial and Trade Activities Environmental Management Plan
Outline Plan Requirements
The outline plan must address matters set out in the conditions of the CRL designation.
Condition 9 of the CRL designation requires the Requiring Authority to provide a summary of the communication and consultation undertaken between the Requiring Authority and Network Utility Operators as part of the Outline Plan.
Condition 10 of the CRL designation requires the Requiring Authority to submit an Outline Plan to the Council for the construction of the project in accordance with s176A of the RMA, including:
• The CCP;
• The CEMP;
• DWPs;
• Site-specific Construction Noise and Vibration Management Plans (SSCNVMPs); and
• Any other information required by the conditions of the designation
These plans must clearly document the comments and inputs received during consultation with stakeholders, affected parties and affected in proximity parties, recommendations received through the Independent Peer Review Panel (IPRP) process, and responses to comments and recommendations received.
Condition 47 of the CRL designation requires the Requiring Authority to submit an Urban Design DWP.
This OPW includes the Stage 2 Urban Design DWP and addendums to those DWPs for which changes or additional information is necessary to manage the effects of this stage of the works, as identified above. These documents have been considered in the assessment of the OPW against the requirements of s176A of the RMA
For the purposes of this OPW, the following plans are not required:
• Public Art DWP (condition 56);
• Historic Heritage DWP, Built Heritage (conditions 41 and 46)
• Historic Heritage DWP, Archaeology (condition 42)
• Groundwater and Settlement Monitoring and Contingency Plan (consent conditions 69103)
The OPW does not address the operational aspects of the CRL project and the associated designation conditions, nor the vehicular operation functions of the adjacent vehicle transport corridors. Whilst the Stage 2 Works include reinstatement of Shaddock Street, this section will
provide pedestrian and cycle access only, and the operation, management, and any future changes to the vehicular network withing the Maungawhau Precinct are the responsibility of Auckland Transport and excluded from consideration in this OPW process.
Engagement with AT in respect of the reinstatement of disturbed areas within the road corridor has been ongoing and has informed the design of the streetscape and reinstatement included in this OPW. Formal endorsement of the proposed Stage 2 works and the overall transport (vehicular and active modes) network by Auckland Transport was provided alongside the OPW documentation submitted by CRLL.
Independent Peer Review Panel
Condition 11 of the CRL designation requires the Requiring Authority to engage suitably qualified independent specialists to form an ‘Independent Peer Review Panel’ (IPRP) to peer review the CEMP and the various DWPs, and provide recommendations of whether changes are required to those plans in order to meet the objective and other requirements of the designation conditions.
These documents must demonstrate how the recommendations from the IPRP have been incorporated, and, where they have not, the reasons why. The Requiring Authority has included this detail in the OPW documents, where required, and Council’s specialists have considered the IPRP feedback when undertaking their review.
CRLL has confirmed that the Stage 2 Urban Design DWP was subject to IPRP review (feedback from Lisa Mein is included in Appendix B of the DWP), but that the CEMP addendum has not been through the IPRP process. CRLL provided a response via email 1 clarifying that CRLL does not consider the CEMP addendum to represent a ‘material change’ to the documents previously approved through the Mt Eden Main Works OPW process, and thus no additional review is required in accordance with the designation conditions. The Stage 2 CCP addendum will be subject to separate review, via the separate 6-monthly review process outlined in Condition 15.6
Council Specialists
This OPW has been assessed by the following specialists in the respective disciplines:
Plan
Construction Environmental Management Plan Addendum and relevant preceding management plans and DWPs
Urban Design Delivery Work Plan
Communication and Consultation Plan Stage 2 Addendum and relevant preceding CCP documents
1 Email from Alice Ge (CRLL) to Stephanie Kane (Beca) dated 26/11/24
Tim O’Grady, Senior Environmental Management Consultant
Sheerin Samsudeen, Principal Urban Design, ADO
Gabrielle Howdle, Principal Landscape Architect
Nidhi Nautiyal, Principal Specialist
Universal Access and Design
Stephanie Kane, Consultant Planner
4. The proposal, site and locality description
Proposal
The purpose of the Outline Plan and the Urban Design DWP is to give effect to the designation conditions for the public realm reinstatement works at Maungawhau Station, including the main pedestrian and cycle linkages and the final surface treatments for the remaining public realm areas Designation Condition 47.1 states: “the objective of the Urban Design Delivery Work Plan is to enable the integration of the CRL’s permanent works into the surrounding landscape and urban design context”
The shift in focus from construction to reinstatement has driven the need for addendums to the CEMP, TAP DWP, CNVMP and CCP for the Mt Eden Main Works.
The works that are subject of the Stage 2 OPW are located within the Maungawhau Precinct, concentrated within the area bound by Nikau Street, Korari Street, Flower Street, and Mt Eden Road.
Full details of the proposed works and management approaches are provided at section 4 of the OPW report, section 2 of the Stage 2 CEMP Addendum, and the accompanying drawings (Appendix B of the OPW report, respectively) prepared by CRLL and submitted to Auckland Council on 12 November 2024
Site and locality description
The Requiring Authority has provided a short description of the site at section 3 of the OPW report. I generally concur with CRLL’s description of the site and add the following points for further context:
• Most of the site is subject to active construction as the remaining components of the wider CRL project near completion The tunnel portals and the underground aspects of the station building are no longer visible and the surface infrastructure and station building are currently being constructed.
• Traffic management both permanent and temporary measures is in place in areas around the Maungawhau Station Precinct, including at Flower Street, Nikau Street, Shaddock Street, Korari Street, Ruru Street, and Ngahura Street
• Stage 1 public realm components, including connections across Fenton Street and Porters Avenue, have been largely completed. The vent stack building has been constructed, as well as the CRL and NAL platforms and the station superstructure.
Photo 1 shows construction progress at the Maungawhau site as at April 2024, viewed from the location of the tunnel portals overlooking the proposed landscaped block and pedestrian and cycle access.
1: Maungawhau Station construction progress as at April 2024 (source: https://www.cityraillink.co.nz/milestones-city-rail-link-photos)
5. Reasons for the application
The project works are to be undertaken within CRLL Designation 2500-6, which is designated for the construction, operation and maintenance of the CRL
Section 176A(1) of the RMA requires that (subject to s176A(2)) an outline plan of works is submitted by the Requiring Authority to the Territorial Authority before construction is commenced in accordance with a Designation in the District Plan, unless one of the following applies:
(a) The proposed public work, project, or work has been otherwise approved under this Act; or
(b) The details of the proposed public work, project, or work, as referred to in the outline plan of works, are incorporated into the designation; or
(c) The Territorial authority waives the requirement for an outline plan.
Clauses (a) to (c) above do not apply in this instance, so an Outline Plan has been provided by the Requiring Authority for Council’s consideration. The primary reason for the outline plan is to review and make recommendations (if necessary) on the Stage 2 Urban Design DWP, which is submitted for the first time as part of this OPW.
The receipt and review of the Outline Plan by Auckland Council is not an opportunity for Council to approve or critique the project design. The details of the design for Maungawhau Station and the broader aspects of the public realm reinstatement have been reviewed by the Auckland Urban Design Panel prior to the submission of the preceding OPWs for the Mt Eden Station Main Works and Stage 1 public realm reinstatement works, Feedback received from the Panel on both of
Photo
these occasions has been considered by CRLL insofar as it is relevant to the scope of the works, as have the comments provided by the Independent Peer Reviewer for the Stage 2 Urban Design DWP, Lisa Mein
Council’s remit in this process is to consider the extent to which the works meet the purpose and conditions of the designation, and whether the actual and potential adverse effects of the works can be adequately and appropriately avoided, remedied or mitigated.
6. Statutory framework
The RMA does not prescribe any particular form to be used for an OPW; however, the information that must be included in an outline plan is specified under section 176A(3), which states that:
An outline plan must show:
(d) The height, shape, and bulk of the public work, project, or work; and
(e) The location on the site of the public work, project, or work; and
(f) The likely finished contour of the site; and
(g) The vehicular access, circulation, and the provision for parking; and
(h) The landscaping proposed; and
(i) Any other matters to avoid, remedy, or mitigate any adverse effects on the environment.
The OPW process does not enable the territorial authority to revisit or limit or expand the use(s) of land authorised by the designation. Section 176A presupposes the designation, including subclause (f), is solely concerned with works to be constructed on the designated land in accordance with the designation.
There is no provision for public input into the outline plan process. However, the RMA does not prevent a requiring authority publicising its proposal and inviting public comment. In the case of CRL, specific public and targeted consultation requirements are stipulated in the designation conditions, including requirements for outline plans in Condition 10.
The Council must provide a written response requesting any desired changes to the OWP to the requiring authority within 20 working days of receipt of the outline plan.
Upon receipt of a request for changes, the requiring authority must decide whether to accept or reject those changes and must convey the decision to the territorial authority. There is no specified timeframe in the RMA for the requiring authority to convey their decision back to the territorial authority.
If the requiring authority decides not to make the changes requested, the territorial authority may, within 15 working days of being notified of the requiring authority’s decision, appeal against the decision to the Environment Court. When considering such an appeal, section 176A(6) of the RMA states that the Environment Court must consider whether the changes requested by the territorial authority will give effect to the purpose of the RMA. In other words, the requested changes must give effect to section 5 of the RMA
Section 5 states:
(1) The purpose of this Act is to promote the sustainable management of natural and physical resources.
(2) In this Act, sustainable management means managing the use, development, and protection of natural and physical resources in a way, or at a rate, which enables people and communities to provide for their social, economic, and cultural wellbeing and for their health and safety while –
(a) Sustaining the potential of natural and physical resources (excluding minerals) to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations; and
(b) Safeguarding the life-supporting capacity of air, water, soil, and ecosystems; and
(c) Avoiding, remedying, or mitigating any adverse effects of activities on the environment.
7. Assessment against s176A(3)
Throughout the processing of this OPW, feedback has also been provided by Council reviewers, including staff within the Auckland Design Office (ADO), to the Requiring Authority on the relevant content of the OPW and the Urban Design DWP for the Stage 2 Works. The purpose of the Urban Design DWP is to demonstrate how CRLL will meet the designation conditions relating to public realm reinstatement works within the Maungawhau Station Precinct area
Where more substantial changes have been made that have required the re-drafting of documents, the Requiring Authority has provided addendums or additional plans to address the proposed works. This process has been undertaken for the CEMP and the CCP:
Throughout the development of this OPW, Council specialists have provided feedback to the Requiring Authority on the content of the OPW, specifically the draft Urban Design DWP and associated drawings Final versions of these documents have been reviewed by Council’s technical specialists, and those reviews form part of this assessment report.
The Requiring Authority has relied on previous management plans and DWPs where appropriate, and a few of the documents prepared for the Mt Eden Main Works OPW and the Stage 1 public realm reinstatement works are to be read alongside the OPW documentation for completeness The content of these existing documents, insofar as it relates to the Stage 2 Works (i.e. those parts which have not been superseded by new documentation) has been reviewed by Tim O’Grady, Senior Environmental Management Consultant on behalf of Council’s Regulatory Compliance Department along with the OPW package
The height, shape and bulk of the public work – s176A(3)(a)
The Requiring Authority has provided an outline of the nature and scale of the proposed works, including height, shape and bulk aspects at section 5.5.1 of the OPW report and the accompanying plans Section 6 of the Urban Design DWP also provides additional detail on the components of the Stage 2 Works, including paving, street furniture, landscaping, signage, and lighting, security and surveillance attributes
The primary aspects for which the height, shape and bulk must be considered are the pedestrian and cycle accessway from Mt Eden Road to Shaddock Street. The remainder of the physical elements can reasonably be considered as landscaping and streetscaping elements,
which are addressed later in this report The transport functionality of the proposed new pedestrian and cycle link and its interface with the roading layout around the station are also addressed separately later in this report as part of the discussion around vehicular access, parking and circulation
The height, shape and bulk of the elements of the Stage 2 Works have been adequately described and sufficient detail shown on the relevant plans and drawings. The information provided satisfies the requirements of s176A(3)(a).
The location on the site of the public work – s176A(3)(b)
The Requiring Authority has provided adequate detail of the location of the works in the OPW report and accompanying plans and documents submitted in support of this Outline Plan for the purposes of s176A(3)(b). The proposed Stage 2 Works will occur completely within the footprint of Designation 2500-6.
The likely finished contour of the site – s176A(3)(c)
The Requiring Authority has confirmed that earthworks and changes to existing ground contours are required to construct the new pedestrian and cycle link and the landscape area. These final contours will be realised once the Stage 2 Works are completed and the new link and footpaths are constructed and connected into the wider Maungawhau Station Precinct. The drawings at Appendix B of the OPW show proposed contours and cut and fill depths for the landscape area and the pedestrian and cycle link.
Overall, I consider that the detail provided regarding the likely finished contour of the area in which Stage 2 Works are proposed is acceptable for the purposes of s176A(3)(c).
Vehicular access, circulation, and the provision for parking – s176A(3)(d)
The Requiring Authority has provided details of the permanent roading layout in section 2.5 of the Urban Design DWP
The road layout within the Maungawhau Station area and the wider Maungawhau Precinct has been endorsed by Auckland Transport in its role as the road controlling authority and the agency responsible for public transport, as evidenced in the correspondence attached at Appendix E to the OPW. The transport arrangement also aligns with the Maungawhau Precinct Development Plan, developed by Eke Panuku in collaboration with Auckland Transport
Section 2.5 of the Urban Design DWP states that the design of the Stage 2 Works “has considered future permanent and construction access for the Maungawhau Precinct.” As the design and use of the future development blocks are currently unknown and will be progressed by Eke Panuku (and/or others) at some point in the future, the design of the proposed pedestrian and cycle link and the final configuration of the roading network around the station has been undertaken in a manner that provides adequately for access vehicular and active modes to the station and the surrounding transport network, whilst not precluding access opportunities for the future development blocks.
During its review of the Stage 1 public realm reinstatement works in September 2021, the Auckland Urban Design Panel raised concerns regarding the (then) proposed use of Nikau Street and Ruru Lane as the primary pedestrian and cycle connections to the station. The Panel considered the indicative layout shown in the reference design and included in Designation
Condition 47.2(b)(xiii). The pedestrian and cycle link proposed as part of the Stage 2 Works, whilst not exactly consistent with the reference design, aligns with the intent and achieves the outcomes sought by Condition 47.2(b)(xiii), avoids the potential for undesirable vehicle movements raised by Auckland Transport, and so is concluded to be generally in accordance as allowed for under Condition 47.2(b)(xiii)
For the purposes of construction access to future development sites, CRLL is proposing to stabilise and compact a 3.5m wide strip adjacent each side of the pedestrian and cycle link as part of the Stage 2 Works. This solution will enable the safe use of the pedestrian and cycle link to be maintained without compromising the ability for development activity within the Precinct.
The landscaping proposed – s176A(3)(e)
The proposed landscaping comprises hard treatments (seal and paving) with some street furniture and trees within the extent of the pedestrian and cycle link, grassing and planting of the landscape block, and stabilisation of the future development blocks with compacted gravel. The Stage 2 Works design includes thirty (30) individual trees, comprising:
• Ten (10) native trees along the new link;
• Severn (7) trees along the northern site of the pedestrianised section of Shaddock Street; and
• Thirteen (13) native trees within the landscape area.
Understorey planting will also be provided within the landscape area. Plants will be selected from the specified planting palette (included in the drawings at Appendix B of the OPW) in consultation with mana whenua and Auckland Council arborists.
The Council’s Urban Design expert, Ms Sheerin Samsudeen, and Principal Landscape Architect, Ms Gabrielle Howdle, have reviewed and provided comment on the Urban Design DWP (initial comments on the draft were provided to CRLL for review on 27 October 2024)
Residual matters raised by Council in assessing the proposed works against the designation conditions relate to the following:
• Mana Whenua cultural design principles;
• Movement and connections design principles; and
• Public realm and landscape design principles
These concerns, detailed further under the assessment of s176A(3)(f) RMA matters and collated into a draft list of recommended changes and suggestions, were communicated to the Requiring Authority (email dated 9 December 2024) and CRLL provided a response via email communication on 12 December 2024.
Other matters to avoid, remedy or mitigate any adverse effects on the environment – s176A(3)(f)
Having reviewed the designation conditions and requirements, I have identified the following potential effects on the environment which I consider should be assessed pursuant to s176A(3)(f) RMA This assessment excludes those matters for which the DWPs and management plans
remain unchanged, i.e. those effects where the Mt Eden Main Works DWPs and Stage 1 addenda are being relied on. These DWPs have been through the Council certification process and deemed acceptable. As such, neither the assessment nor management of these effects is relitigated as part of the public realm reinstatement OPW process.
Urban design and landscape outcomes
An assessment of the proposed works in terms of the urban design and landscape outcomes has been broadly divided into categories that align with the Urban Design Principals set out in the CRL designation conditions.
Where not satisfactorily addressed, the residual issues raised in response to the Urban Design DWP have been included in the requested or suggested changes sought as part of the recommendation for requested changes to the Outline Plan.
Mana Whenua cultural design principles
Ms Samsudeen provided a broad comment in her review of the Stage 2 Works design in relation to the Mana Whenua design principles, as follows:
Independent peer review by Lisa Mein has identified some opportunities relating to mana whenua design principles. I note the response from CRL to be generally satisfactory but consider the recommendation under 49.1 (a) to also relate to AUDP recommendations by Lucy Tukua in relation to Whakapapa to revive names.
It is understood that Cultural narratives adopted in the Stage 1 public realm works will continue to be applied for the Stage 2 works. Note the Mana Whenua involvement in plant species selection proposed in the new Link, Shaddock Street and the landscaping area to the north of the new link.
Ms Howdle agrees with the Independent Peer Review comments from Lisa Mein, commenting “that the continued exploration of narrative from mana whenua within the public realm works is encouraged and should be part of the detailed design process for Stage 2 works.” On this basis, suggestions were made regarding continued positive engagement with mana whenua around other opportunities to explore and express the cultural narrative, and the potential opportunity for mana whenua to gift a name for the new pedestrian and cycle link.
In response to Council’s suggestions, CRLL has confirmed that the opportunity to name all new streets and accessways was presented at the CRL Mana Whenua Forum on 4th December 2024. It is anticipated that mana whenua will respond in 2025, and CRLL will facilitate the naming of new streets and accessways through the Auckland Council road naming process. At the same forum, further opportunities for mana whenua involvement in furthering the expression of the cultural narratives through landscaping, planting and tree selection, and paving design were raised.
Council is pleased to see CRLL engaging proactively with mana whenua to advance detailed design decisions in a manner that gives effect to the Mana Whenua Design Principles and narratives for Maungawhau Station and surrounds. To reflect Council’s support for this process, the suggestions are maintained in the recommendation and CRLL’s commitment to collaborative outcomes acknowledged.
Movement and connections design principles
The majority of Council’s expectations regarding the movement and connections design principles are deemed to have been generally met by the proposed Stage 2 Works design. The stronger focus on pedestrian and cycle connectivity and universal access to Maungawhau Station along a central spine is supported.
Both Ms Samsudeen and Ms Howdle raised the lack of clarity around the proposed paving treatment along the pedestrian and cycle link including the reinstated pedestrianised section of Shaddock Street with pavement details to be confirmed at a later stage of design. Clarity on how the paving treatment and patterns will tie into areas undertaken as part of the Stage 1 public realm works along Shaddock Street would assist in understanding the extent to which the design adequately considers movement and connection requirements for footpaths (Condition 47.2(b)(viii)) and public realm and landscape requirements for reinstated surfaces (Condition 47.2(c)(iv), particularly in relation to coherent and consistent streetscape features.
To address this uncertainty, a draft recommended change was made to ensure that paving treatments employed on the section of Shaddock Street that will form part of the new pedestrian and cycle link maintains continuity and ties in coherently to the paving provided on the sections of Shaddock Street undertaken during previous stages of public realm reinstatement works.
CRLL’s response to the draft recommended change was:
Auckland Transport CPAG [Capital Projects Accessibility Group] was consulted with as part of design development and the proposed tactiles have been agreed with them to facilitate movement guidance. The proposed concrete finishes tie into the Stage 1 works surrounding the Station. As part of further design development, we are also proposing areas of patterned paving around seating areas for additional amenity (similar to Stage 1). Note there is no Shared Zone/Space proposed, it will be a pedestrian accessway linked to a shared path/footpath.
Whilst the additional information on decision-making around the design aspects for the pedestrian linkages provides some certainty that the necessary design and accessibility aspects are being considered, Council has yet to see the design details Given that these are to be confirmed at subsequent stages of detailed design, Council is not likely to have further opportunity to provide input. As such, the recommended change (with slightly amended wording) is maintained
Public realm and landscape design principles
Ms Samsudeen notes that majority of the public realm and landscape design elements are generally met by the proposed Stage 2 Works design, specifically:
The new link and the green space levels and finishes [have been designed] to match the surrounding blocks and streets respectively… The link provides safe, clear and wide pedestrian /cyclist connection to the station with high quality landscape, wayfinding and lighting. Note Ruru Lane will remain open for pedestrians and cyclists and that the retractable bollards will be installed at both ends of Ruru Lane to limit access to maintenance, service and emergency vehicles.
It is acknowledged that the CRL programme is ahead of the wider Maungawhau Precinct master planning process and that the proposed Stage 2 Works excludes future development blocks that are the responsibility of Eke Panuku. Section 2.4 of the Urban Design DWP states that the “location and design of the [temporary] fencing or other types of barrier will be identified by Eke
Panuku once proposals for the transitional activities have been further developed.” In relation to the creation of safe environments, Ms Samsudeen points to the lack of clarity around the timing for installation of fencing or barriers around the future development blocks relative to the opening of the pedestrian and cycle link, noting that “the lack of fencing on Day 1 raises CPTED [(crime prevention through environmental design)] concerns relating to potential anti-social behaviour within the blocks.”
Regardless of who is responsible for delivering the temporary fencing arrangements, it is Council’s opinion that the fencing/barriers should be in place at the time the pedestrian and cycle link is opened to meet the requirement under Condition 47.2(c)(iii) that “station entrances should release patrons into safe public spaces…” A recommended change to this effect was therefore included in the draft list circulated to CRLL for comment CRLL’s response on this matter is as follows:
A Temporary Fencing Plan is being developed for the entire Maungawhau Station precinct in consultation with Eke Panuku and AT. CPTED matters associated with post-CRL works during the transition period is the responsibility of Eke Panku and AT. AT has already commissioned a post-CRL CPTED assessment to inform a future transitional activities plan. The Temporary Fencing Plan will include demarcation of development boundaries using a mix of fencing, timber bollards and basalt boulders.
It is understood that the ultimate responsibility for the future development blocks, including the decisions around their future transitional and permanent uses, rests with Eke Panuku and Auckland Transport. However, neither the OPW nor the Urban Design DWP provide certainty around the timing of the temporary fencing alongside the pedestrian and cycle link, nor does the information give clarity on whether the link will be opened before or after the commencement of the ”transition period”.
Council has not been privy to a post-CRL CPTED assessment commissioned by Auckland Transport as part of the OPW documentation, and the submission of a Temporary Fencing Plan is not stipulated as a requirement of the OPW process. As such, Council cannot comment on whether the results of any such assessment indicate that Condition 47.2(c)(iii) will be satisfactorily met based on the information provided At the least, Council considers it imperative that the temporary fencing alongside the pedestrian and cycle link is in place prior to the opening of the link As such, this recommended change is retained, albeit with amended wording to provide CRLL with a mechanism for providing the information to Council separately
Another recommended change in respect to the provision of safety plans and a detailed plan of action for temporary fencing is acknowledged as being outside the scope of the Stage 2 Works and CRLL’s responsibility (as noted in CRLL’s response), and has been removed from the recommendation.
The proposal includes the planting of thirty (30) trees within the pedestrian and cycle link (including the reinstated and pedestrianised section of Shaddock Street) and the landscape block bound by Korari, Nikau, Flower and Shaddock Streets. The details of the trees and plants to be planted are included in section 5.5.5 of the OPW, section 6.4 of the Urban Design DWP, and the drawings attached at Appendix B to the OPW. Ultimate species selection from the specified planting palette will be made in consultation with mana whenua and Auckland Council arborists.
As per the approach taken across the CRL sites to date, the designation conditions require CRLL to replace removed trees on a 1:1 basis, with the preference being for replacement to occur as
close as possible to the original location of the removed tree(s). As such, it is imperative that proposed tree plantings are undertaken to ensure that the effects of the loss of urban trees is mitigated through adequate compensation and/or offset, in accordance with the intent of the 1:1 replacement requirement
Whilst no specific update nor addendum to the Main Works Trees and Vegetation DWP relied on for the Stage 2 Works was submitted as part of this OPW, Ms Gabrielle Howdle, in her review of the OPW and Urban Design DWP for Stage 2 Works, has considered the proposed planting and landscape design. She has raised two points regarding the proposed trees:
• Three options are proposed for the planting of the batter slopes within the landscape area. Of these, Options 2 and 3 provide for specimen trees to be planted on the slope, but Option 1 only provides for lower planting. In the event that Option 1 is selected, how does the final design of the landscape area and the wider Stage 2 Works ensure that the 13 trees will be planted and the overall design outcome achieved?
The design does not specify the grade or size of the 30 trees to be planted as part of the Stage 2 Works. It is recommended that large scale trees are implemented to deliver the overall public realm outcome.
The draft list of recommended changes provided to CRLL for comment included confirmation that the design option selected for the treatment of the landscape block ensure provision for at least 13 specimen trees. CRLL’s response indicates that this is a change that the Requiring Authority is happy to accept, and it has been retained in the final recommendation.
Council also requested confirmation that the 30 specimen trees planted as part of the Stage 2 Works are a minimum height of 2m at the time of planting. CRLL has confirmed that the trees planted within the pedestrianised section of Shaddock Street and the new pedestrian and cycle link will all likely be around 2m in height or taller. However, whilst some of the trees proposed within the landscape block will be similar in size, others will be smaller at the time of planting. CRLL also notes that the potential for additional trees within the landscape area is being explored through design development.
It is noted that the purpose of the Stage 2 Works within the landscape block is restoration of a construction area, rather than the permanent development and reinstatement of the public realm. This difference in purpose is acknowledged and Council accepts CRLL’s rationale for rejecting the recommended change. The close collaboration with Council Arborists regarding selection and planting of specimen trees provides sufficient certainty that the planting of the trees will achieve good design outcomes along with meeting the requirements for the 1:1 replacement of trees as mitigation for trees removed as part of the CRL project. Based on these factors, the draft change has been removed from the final recommendation.
Universal access
Ms Nidhi Nautiyal undertook an assessment of the proposed design in relation to universal access requirements Her comments were provided in conjunction with those previously provided by Ms Samsudeen and Ms Howdle, and collated into a series of recommendations provided to CRLL on 10 December 2024.
Ms Nautiyal’s comments are summarised in the following points:
• The suggestions made by Ms Samsudeen and Ms Howdle regarding opportunities for further expression are supported by Ms Nautiyal. The suggestions reflect the universal design goals of ‘cultural appropriateness’ and ‘personalisation’ and provide a unique opportunity for mana whenua to express identity in a participatory manner.
• Ms Nautiyal highlights the lack of connection between the proposed pedestrian and cycle link and the Ruru Lane connection prior to their termination at the Mt Eden Road end. Topography permitting, Ms Nutiyal suggests that a connection between the two in the form of a plaza or open green space (as per the marked-up image below) would provide a more continuous movement network and natural outcome. Such an area would also better achieve connectivity and approachability to the signalised pedestrian crossing at Mt Eden Road.
• It is not clear if the proposed pedestrian and cycle link is intended to be confirmed as a shared path or whether the link will be zoned for separate movements. If a zoned approach is intended, i.e. cyclists at the outer edges, then pedestrians, with furniture and landscaping innermost, it is suggested that consideration be given to a specified micromobility zone between cyclists and pedestrians to address different speeds. If a shared path is intended, it is recommended that the linearity of the path is broken up with organic arrangement of seating, landscape elements, and street furniture (bins and water fountains etc) whilst maintaining a step-free walking surface and incorporating footpath treatment as tactile delineation of an accessibility zone.
• Speed limit signage at the start and end of the cycle and pedestrian link will be required for cycle and micromobility users, and any necessary restricted vehicle access.
• Additional information regarding the location, placement, frequency, content, legibility and clarity of signage, and the placement of street elements and surface treatments, is required to determine the extent to which the outcome successfully aligns with the principles of intuitive design and wayfinding
• Ms Nautiyal agrees with previous comments around the need for continuity and cohesion across paving treatments between Stage 1 and Stage 2 Works. Finishes should include tactile delineation and specific paving patterns/treatment for junctions and the function of the link, i.e. as a shared space or zoned movement area.
• Retractable bollards should be placed sufficiently apart to provide for unimpeded wheelchair access and include a colour contrast band or stripes to increase visibility for blind and low vision users. A minimum height of 1-1.2m is recommended to avoid the bollards being struck by maintenance, service and emergency vehicles.
• Ms Nautiyal also reinforces concerns raised by previous experts in terms of the timing and details of the proposed temporary fencing. She recommends that safety plans and a detailed plan of action for the duration of the temporary fencing be developed, covering temporary signage, barrier details, any necessary proposed alternative routes etc, to ensure that safety and accessibility requirements are met in line with CPTED principles.
CRLL’s response to the draft recommended changes sought by Council addressed some of these matters, as noted below:
• Micromobility modes and associated signage are being considered in conjunction with Auckland Transport and specific wayfinding signage is being developed.
• The bollards [at Ruru Lane] are manually removable and lockable. They are 900mm high and spaced nominally at 1.5m apart. This meets Auckland Transport design requirements and is the same design used elsewhere around the city (e.g. Tyler Street).
• CRLL’s response regarding paving treatment (above) notes that areas of patterned paving are proposed around seating areas for additional amenity It is good to have confirmation that the design will include demarcation of amenity spaces within the shared space to help facilitate safe multimodal movement.
The response provides additional certainty that principles of universal design are being factored into design satisfactorily. Council acknowledges CRLL’s commitment to addressing these matters; however, in the absence of concrete design information around signage and paving, the draft recommended changes in respect to paving design and micromobility consideration are retained in the final recommendation
The draft recommended change regarding the specifications for the retractable bollards has been amended to remove the spacing and height requirements. The former is deemed sufficient from a universal access perspective, and the latter deferral to Auckland Transport design requirements is accepted. The recommended confirmation that bollards include a colour contrast band or stripes to increase visibility for blind and low vision users is maintained.
Based on Ms Nautiyal’s review, Council also made a draft suggestion that a connection between the pedestrian and cycle link and Ruru Lane in the form of a plaza or open green space be considered to provide a more continuous movement network and natural outcome, and better achieve connectivity and approachability to the signalised pedestrian crossing at Mt Eden Road.
CRLL’s response noted that this land has already been set aside for urban regeneration led by Eke Panuku, and that CRLL will not be installing a plaza or green space at this location. Council accepts this and the suggestion has been removed from the final recommendation.
Overall, based on the information provided by CRLL in response to Council’s comments, and the expertise of the Design Office team who have undertaken a robust assessment of the Urban Design DWP and Outline Plan documentation, the requirements of the designation conditions in relation to the Urban Design principles are considered to be generally met. Residual
recommendations being either requests or suggestions for changes are captured in the concluding section of this report.
Communication and consultation with potentially affected parties
I have reviewed the Stage 2 CCP Addendum, alongside the Mt Eden Main Works CCP and the CCP Stage 1 Addendum. I consider the use of a further addendum an appropriate mechanism for reviewing the applicability and appropriateness of the protocols already developed and implemented for the CRL Maungawhau site, particularly in the context of the scope and scale of the proposed Stage 2 Works.
The Stage 2 CCP Addendum notes that the overarching strategies and methodologies, and the communication and consultation strategies outlined in the Main Works CCP remain applicable to the Stage 2 Works. Changes in key personnel are specified in the Stage 2 CCP Addendum, as CRLL will be working with a specified Contractor (yet to be appointed) to undertake the works, as opposed to Link Alliance, the main delivery partner for CRL works to date. The management of relationships and interfaces with key community touchpoints, including the Maungawhau Station Community and Business Liaison Group and the Uptown Business Association, will be maintained by CRLL.
The Stage 2 Works represent the concluding phases of the CRL works at and around Maungawhau Station, with delivery and opening of the project anticipated in 2026. The development of the public realm design (including Stage 1 and Stage 2 works and the station building itself) has been undertaken in collaboration with other agencies responsible for future development and ongoing management of networks and sites that interact closely with the public realm around the station. The design has been heavily influenced by the Maungawhau Precinct Development Plan prepared by Eke Panuku alongside Auckland Transport, and the Stage 2 CCP Addendum notes a strategic focus on unified and aligned communications across the three organisations.
I conclude that the Stage 2 CCP Addendum contains or cross references to relevant and appropriate tools, methods and processes for communication and consultation for the works and generally satisfies the relevant designation conditions. However, I do note the following points in highlighting opportunities for CRLL to more specifically tailor communication and consultation protocols for the Stage 2 Works, particularly given that the works will be undertaken by a new Contractor/delivery partner potentially not as familiar with the previous CCP documentation:
Review of Main Works CCP
• Given the time elapsed between the preparation of the Main Works CCP and the current phase of works, and the shift from station construction to completion of public realm reinstatement, it would be useful for the Stage 2 CCP Addendum to include comment on the effectiveness of the tools and methods of communication to date A brief review of how well the measures and protocols in the Main Works CCP have addressed the identified impacts would provide context as to whether deferring to the same methods of communication and consultation in relation to construction effects management is appropriate.
Stakeholder and affected parties
• Section 6.5 of Stage 2 CCP Addendum defers to the approach outlined in the CCP Stage 1 Addendum, which contains no specificity around affected parties. Section 7.2 of the
Stage 2 Addendum notes that there are no material changes to stakeholders and affected parties outlined in the Main Works CCP. Section 6.5 and Appendix B of the Main Works CCP both provide further detail on affected stakeholders and the affected community. Based on the scope and scale of the Stage 2 Works, there is an opportunity to provide further specificity on those parties that may be directly affected by the works and tailor the communication and consultation approach to those parties, including Notable Receivers identified in the Main Works CCP
Indicative key messages
• The high-level messages include reference to the landscape area above the tunnel portal as “a green space for community use.” Based on discussions with CRLL prior to the submission of the OPW, the future use of this landscape area was not confirmed, nor is it CRLL’s mandate to manage or maintain this area once handed over to Eke Panuku. It is suggested that messaging in relation to what CRLL is responsible for delivering on this block is worded carefully to reflect the limited influence CRLL has over its future use.
• Messaging around effects management could reference the continuation of existing protocols and measures that have been implemented for CRL works at and around Maungawhau Station for previous phases of works, and acknowledge that CRLL remains obligated to comply with conditions of regulatory approvals for the project for Stage 2 Works.
• Messaging around parking and property access states that “[a]ccess and loading will be maintained for local businesses and residents, or appropriate alternatives will be found.” There is no clarity on how any temporary changes to property access will be communicated to residents and business owners. It is suggested that prior communication with relevant parties is referenced to avoid the inference that residents and businesses may be ‘lumped’ with an alternative with no prior opportunity to discuss options.
• Whilst it is good to see broader messages around the Maungawhau PDP and local transport connections included in the Stage 2 CCP Addendum, it would be useful to have clear messaging around the division of responsibility of the three parties CRLL, Eke Panuku, and Auckland Transport and some general timing around the components they are each responsible for. For example, that the ownership and management of the future development sites, and the transport infrastructure will be transferred to Eke Panuku and Auckland Transport once Stage 2 Works are completed
Response to CLG feedback
• Table 3 in Appendix B of the Urban Design DWP notes that written feedback received from the CLG included a request for further information on how CRLL is reducing construction disruption for residents. The response provided by CRLL states that “[a] comprehensive suite of construction mitigations for residents will be included in the construction environmental management plan submitted as part of the Outline Plan for the Stage 2 works.” The OPW included an addendum that largely deferred to the previous CEMP documents for construction effects management, and there is no clear evidence, nor specific mention, of how this feedback from the CLG has been incorporated into the Stage 2 CCP Addendum. In particular, I consider that, given the scale and nature of the
Stage 2 Works, additional specificity could be provided to better meet the requirements of clauses (c), (d), (f), (g), (h), and (l) of Condition 15.4
To address these points, three recommended changes to the documents are included being:
• Reviewing Social Impact and Business Disruption and compliance monitoring, complaints records, and CLG feedback to review the effectiveness and applicability of Main Works CCP methods and tools, particularly in relation to affected parties and Notable Receivers;
• Re-confirming affected parties closer to the commencement of Stage 2 Works; and
• Updating the Key Messages to be specific to the Stage 2 Works, including clarifying CRLL’s role, responsibilities and limitations in addressing aspects of the broader Maungawhau Precinct Development
The actions suggested above are important to ensure that the CCP requirements specified in the designation conditions are met and that the communications and consultation approach can sufficiently address different effects, concerns, and engagement required during the Stage 2 Works. The changes requested in respect to the requirements for the CCP were circulated to CRLL as part of the draft list via email on 9 December 2024. CRLL’s response confirmed that an updated CCP Stage 2 Addendum will be provided to address the matters raised by Council. As this is likely to occur after the statutory processing period for the OPW, the requested change has been maintained to ensure that Council’s expectations regarding the CCP are met.
CRL is a public project and the proposed Stage 2 Works constitute some of the most visible and accessible public components of the Maungawhau Station area. As such, it is essential to ensure that complacency does not overshadow compliance with relevant conditions during the closing stages of what has been a lengthy and disruptive project for affected communities.
Construction effects
Mr Tim O’Grady, Senior Environmental Management Consultant, has confirmed that the CEMP Addendum – Stage 2 provided by CRLL, and the relevant existing DWPs and Management Plans that sit alongside it, are in accordance with the designation conditions Mr O’Grady notes that adherence with the measures will appropriately mitigate the effects of the Stage 2 Works in line with the previous works undertaken at Maungawhau.
In regard to compliance, Mr O’Grady states the following:
In regard to section 4, implementation and operation, I stress the importance of complying with the details laid out in the Main Works CEMP in regard to roles and responsibilities and environmental training and induction. Ensuring sub-contractors are appropriately inducted with appropriate controls in place will avoid any breach of protocol or lapse in judgement, particularly in pavement construction and concrete cutting where the effects can be minor but lead to a cumulative compliance concern.
Whilst this is not specifically a recommendation on the proposed management measures documented in the Main Works CEMP and subsequent addenda, it is relevant in terms of the scope of activities that will be undertaken as part of the Stage 2 Works, and important to highlight ahead of implementation.
8. Conclusion
The proposed Stage 2 Works are within the extent and purpose of CRLL Designation 2500-6 and are consistent with the purpose of the designation.
As noted throughout the preceding sections of this report, the OPW documentation provided by CRLL includes sufficient detail to satisfy the requirements of s176A(3) of the RMA.
In general, the proposed works, mitigation measures and documentation meet the requirements of the relevant designation conditions, and the actual and potential effects have been adequately assessed and can be appropriately mitigated. In accordance with section 176A(4) of the RMA, Council may request that the Requiring Authority make changes to the outline plan. Any changes requested should be limited to those required for compliance with the designation purpose and relevant conditions.
In reviewing the material submitted with the Maungawhau Station – Stage 2 Public Realm Works OPW, Council’s experts have made recommendations for changes to the Outline Plan and/or design of the proposed works. Some of these recommendations related to gaps in information required to demonstrate compliance with specific designation conditions. Others are suggestions for alterations or improvements to the design of the proposed works that, in Council’s view, would better achieve the design outcomes anticipated by the Urban Design Principles and designation conditions.
The recommended changes have therefore been separated into these two categories to provide the Requiring Authority with clarity on which are requested in order to demonstrate compliance with the conditions in accordance with Section 176A(4) of the RMA, from those which Council views as providing improved outcomes for the expression of the design principles / conditions but are not directly necessary to satisfy the designation conditions.
CRLL has been privy to draft recommended changes prior to the finalisation of this report and provided comments on both the changes requested and suggestions made by Council, which have helped to inform the final recommendation.
The feedback provided by CRLL also noted where the suggested changes are considered to be unnecessary or outside the scope of works. Such feedback does not necessarily change the requested or suggested changes as included below, and Council maintains its position on several of these matters, as informed by the robust assessment undertaken by its technical specialists.
In response to the matters raised above and for the reasons set out in the draft recommendation below, I recommend that Council confirms the Maungawhau Station – Stage 2 Public Realm Works Outline Plan for works within Designation 2500-6, subject to the following requested changes and suggestions:
Changes requested to address effects and demonstrate compliance with conditions of Designation 2500-6:
Movement and Connections Design Principles
1. That paving treatment to be employed along the new section of Shaddock Street that forms part of the pedestrian and cycle access link maintain continuity and tie in appropriately with those sections of Shaddock Street footpath completed as part of Stage 1 public realm
reinstatement works. Finishes should include tactile delineation and specific paving patterns/treatment for junctions and the function of the link.
2. That consideration is given to micromobility modes, and signage at the start and end of the cycle and pedestrian link is provided for cycle and micromobility users and any necessary restricted vehicle access.
3. That the removable bollards at Ruru Lane include a colour contrast band or stripes to increase visibility for blind and low vision users.
Public Realm and Landscape Design Principles
4. That temporary fencing alongside the pedestrian and cycle link be in place prior to the opening of the link to ensure a safe environment consistent with CPTED principles for CRL patrons and other users during the period prior to the use of proposed development blocks for any transitional or permanent activity.
5. That the option selected for the treatment of the landscape block ensure provision for thirteen (13) specimen trees at a minimum
Communication and Consultation
6. That the Mt Eden Main Works CCP and/or the CCP Stage 2 Addendum be revised and updated in accordance with clauses (c), (d), (f), (g), (h), and (l) of Condition 15. of CRL Designation 2500-1, to:
a. Include a review of the effectiveness and applicability of Main Works CCP methods and tools, particularly in relation to affected parties and Notable Receivers, using SIBD and compliance monitoring results, complaints records, and CLG feedback.
b. Reconfirm affected parties, property owners and occupiers who will be directly affected by the Stage 2 Works prior to the works commencing The list of identified affected parties, property owners and occupiers must be provided with the Main Works CCP and/or the CCP Stage 2 Addendum;
c. Update the Key Messages to reflect the Stage 2 Works as distinct from the Main Works and Stage 1 works, prior to Stage 2 Works commencing, and in time to inform specific communication and consultation material. The revised Key Messages should make clear CRLL’s role, responsibilities, and limitations within the context of the broader Maungawhau Precinct development.
Changes suggested to better achieve outcomes under the Mana Whenua Design Principles:
7. To progress the opportunity for mana whenua to gift a name for the new pedestrian/cycling link, which is the main spine connecting to the station entrance.
8. To continue positive engagement with mana whenua and the exploration of narrative within the public realm works of Stage 2.
Report & draft recommendation prepared by:
Stephanie Kane
Beca Limited
Consultant Planner for Auckland Council
Date: 18 December 2024
Report & draft recommendation reviewed by:
Blair Masefield
Beca Limited
Consultant Planner for Auckland Council
Date: 18 December 2024
Recommendation on an outline plan of works under s176A of the Resource Management Act 1991
Application number(s):
OPW60391638
Requiring authority's name: City Rail Link Limited and KiwiRail Limited
Site address: Mt Eden Station:
Ruru Street, Nikau Street, Flower Street, Korari Street, Shaddock Street, Ngahura Street.
Legal description:
Section 2 SO 488903, Section 1 SO 488903, Lot 1 DP 43875, Allot 206 Sec 10 SBRS OF Auckland, Lot 1 DP 57203.
Road reserve
Proposed work / project:
The second stage of the public realm reinstatement works within the Maungawhau Station precinct include:
• Construction of a new pedestrian/cycle link extending from Mt Eden Road and connecting to Shaddock Street;
• Reinstatement of the eastern section of Shaddock Street (between Flower Street and Korari Street) for pedestrian and cycle access only;
• Installation of new stormwater infrastructure and other network utilities within the new pedestrian/cycle link;
• Planting of street trees in the pedestrian/cycle link and Shaddock Street;
• Installation of street furniture;
• Stabilisation and landscaping of the steep block bound by Shaddock, Flower, Korari and Nikau Streets as a tiered grassed area; and
• Stabilisation, gravelling and fencing of future development blocks
Recommendation
I have read the outline plan of works (OPW), supporting documents, and the report and recommendations on the OPW. I am satisfied that I have sufficient information to consider the matters required by the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) and make a recommendation under delegated authority.
Acting under delegated authority, under section 176A of the RMA, Auckland Council recommends the following changes are made to the Maungawhau Station – Stage 2 Public Realm Works OPW:
Changes requested to address effects and demonstrate compliance with conditions of Designation 2500-6:
Movement and Connections Design Principles
1. That paving treatment to be employed along the new section of Shaddock Street that forms part of the pedestrian and cycle access link maintain continuity and tie in appropriately with those sections of Shaddock Street footpath completed as part of Stage 1 public realm reinstatement works. Finishes should include tactile delineation and specific paving patterns/treatment for junctions and the function of the link.
2. That consideration is given to micromobility modes, and signage at the start and end of the cycle and pedestrian link is provided for cycle and micromobility users and any necessary restricted vehicle access.
3. That the removable bollards at Ruru Lane include a colour contrast band or stripes to increase visibility for blind and low vision users.
Public Realm and Landscape Design Principles
4. That temporary fencing alongside the pedestrian and cycle link be in place prior to the opening of the link to ensure a safe environment consistent with CPTED principles for CRL patrons and other users during the period prior to the use of proposed development blocks for any transitional or permanent activity.
5. That the option selected for the treatment of the landscape block ensure provision for thirteen (13) specimen trees at a minimum.
Communication and Consultation
6. That the Mt Eden Main Works CCP and/or the CCP Stage 2 Addendum be revised and updated in accordance with clauses (c), (d), (f), (g), (h), and (l) of Condition 15. of CRL Designation 2500-1, to:
d. Include a review of the effectiveness and applicability of Main Works CCP methods and tools, particularly in relation to affected parties and Notable Receivers, using SIBD and compliance monitoring results, complaints records, and CLG feedback.
e. Reconfirm affected parties, property owners and occupiers who will be directly affected by the Stage 2 Works prior to the works commencing The list of identified affected parties, property owners and occupiers must be provided with the Main Works CCP and/or the CCP Stage 2 Addendum;
f. Update the Key Messages to reflect the Stage 2 Works as distinct from the Main Works and Stage 1 works, prior to Stage 2 Works commencing, and in time to inform specific communication and consultation material. The revised Key Messages should make clear CRLL’s role, responsibilities, and limitations within the context of the broader Maungawhau Precinct development.
Changes suggested to better achieve outcomes under the Mana Whenua Design Principles:
7. To progress the opportunity for mana whenua to gift a name for the new pedestrian/cycling link, which is the main spine connecting to the station entrance.
8. To continue positive engagement with mana whenua and the exploration of narrative within the public realm works of Stage 2.
Advice notes
1. This recommendation on the outline plan of works recognises the scope of works enabled under the designation. This authorisation covers only any activity that would otherwise infringe a rule in a district plan under the RMA. The requiring authority is responsible for identifying and obtaining all other necessary consents and permits. These may include:
• Any relevant resource consents both under any relevant national environmental standard (e.g. NES for assessing and managing contaminants in soil to protect human health), and any relevant regional rules under the operative and proposed regional plan(s) and regional coastal plan(s), and/or any variations to existing regional consents obtained for the CRL project
• the Building Act 2004
• any relevant Auckland Council bylaws
• Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014.
Approved for release
Recommendation approved for release for determination.
Warwick Pascoe – Principal Project Lead Premium Resource Consents
Date: 18 December 2024
Schedule 1
The proposed works have been confirmed as falling within the scope of the designation and satisfying s176A RMA on the basis of the requested changes to address designation condition requirements and adverse effects, and all Stage 2 Works being undertaken in accordance with the plans and all information submitted with the outline plan of works, detailed below, and all referenced by the Council as consent number(s) OPW60440168 (including preceding documentation relied upon by the Requiring Authority)
• Outline Plan of Works and accompanying documentation, prepared by City Rail Link and lodged 12 November 2024
Report title and reference
Author Rev Dated
Maungawhau Station Stage 2 Public Realm Works - Outline Plan CRL-MTE-RME RPT-8000267 City Rail Link Limited 01 8 November 2024
Maungawhau Station: Stage 2 Public Realm Works - Urban Design Delivery Work Plan CRL-MTE-RME-LKA-RPT800006 City Rail Link Limited A03 8 November 2024
Maungawhau Station Stage 2 Public Realm Works –Construction Environmental Management Plan Stage 2 Addendum CRL-MTE-RME-LKA-RPT-800008 City Rail Link Limited A01 8 November 2024
Maungawhau Station Stage 2 Public Realm Works –Communication and Consultation Plan Stage 2 Addendum CRL-MTE-RME-LKA-RPT-800011
Rail Link Limited A01 11 November 2024
Maungawhau Station Stage 2 Public Realm Works - Outline Plan: Appendix B – Drawings City Rail Link Limited October 2024
Maungawhau Station Stage 2 Public Realm Works - Outline Plan: Appendix E – AT Endorsement City Rail Link Limited 11 June 2024
• Communication and technical memos provided during OPW processing
Correspondence and reference
Urban Design Review of the City Rail Link Maungawhau Station Public Realm Works - Stage 2
OPW60440168 - CRL Maungawhau Public Realm Reinstatement - Stage 2 CEMP Review
City Rail Link Maungawhau Station Public Realm WorksStage 2 – Universal Design & Accessibility Provisions Audit
OPW60440168 - Maungawhau Stage 2 PRR works - draft recommendations (email to CRLL)
Response: OPW60440168 - Maungawhau Stage 2 PRR works - draft recommendations (email from CRLL)
Author Dated
Sheerin Samsudeen / Gabrielle Howdle 28 November 2024
Tim O’Grady 2 December 2024
Nidhi Nautiyal 9 December 2024
Stephanie Kane 10 December 2024
Alice Ge 12 December 2024
