Working with Eke Panuku from ECI through to construction, a fully functioning urban realm streetscape upgrade was completed in 2023. The project features a new water feature, stone paving on road trafficable concrete base, street furniture, tree pits, raised insitu concrete planters, new surface water drainage system, amenity lighting and artwork structures.

Of particular interest were the Mahi Toi, which showcase distinctive and specialist features that reflect the cultural and natural heritage of the area. Notable elements include the Waharoa gateway arch adorned with intricate patterns symbolising Māori cultural aspects, custom made LED lighting column patterns inspired by the natural world, a central cast insitu water feature with stone cladding representing the life force of moving water, and a Whare Maumahara structure referencing the region’s precious flora and fauna. These unique architectural and artistic elements celebrate the rich traditions and environment of Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, creating a visually stunning and culturally meaningful space for visitors to connect with the area’s heritage.

The scope of works consisted of the following:

• New granite stone paving on reinforced 30/35Mpa structural concrete base.
• New lighting system including amenity lighting via Jellicoe style Poles and downlights on each of the Mahi Tois clusters.
• Complex formwork to construct raised concrete planter and seating
• Over 1500m² of decorative concrete with medium to heavy sandblast finish. 71,400 individual pieces of natural stone paving
• Three new lighting artwork clusters, Pou Rama on 38 Hurstmere Road, Waharoa at the Lake Road entrance and Whare Maumahara at the Potters Park interface.
• Surface water system, drains from Aco surface channels connecting to manholes and Storm Filters
• Water feature overflow and new drinking fountain connect to the existing WW system.
• New water supply for the water feature automated tree pit irrigation system and drinking fountains are from metered supplies on Lake Road
• New fully integrated water feature complete with surge pump, underwater lights, rock pools and plinth seats