Wynyard Quarter park taking shape as Te Ara Tukutuku earthworks progress in $320m regeneration start
AUCKLAND, NZ – November 6, 2025 — The transformation of Auckland’s waterfront is moving into its most ambitious phase yet, with earthworks officially progressing on Te Ara Tukutuku, a landmark public park at Wynyard Point. This significant milestone marks the beginning of the long-term regeneration that is set to inject $320 million into developing the northern end of Wynyard Quarter into a world-class public destination.
The site, once dominated by petro-chemical storage tanks, is now visibly changing as Eke Panuku Development Auckland and its partners undertake crucial site preparation. These enabling works are part of the initial “healing phase” (Tāmata te Mauri), focusing on the necessary remediation to cleanse the contaminated land and restore the ecology before the public park takes its final form.
When complete, Te Ara Tukutuku will span five hectares—delivering the largest new open space in the city centre in over a century. The $320 million figure represents the total investment planned for the park, its supporting streets, laneways, and essential infrastructure, which is scheduled to unfold over the next decade.
A Project Guided by Mana Whenua
Far from a conventional park development, Te Ara Tukutuku is a co-design project, deeply rooted in Māori culture and traditional knowledge (mātauranga Māori). The name itself, gifted by Mana Whenua (local Māori tribes), holds profound meaning:
Te Ara Tukutuku refers to the traditional waka (canoe) ramps, serving as a powerful metaphor for the binding of the land (Papatūānuku) and the sea (Tangaroa). The core vision is to heal the land and sea, restoring the mauri (life force) of the area and strengthening the connection between people and Te Waitematā.
The final park design promises a unique experience for Aucklanders, incorporating features that emphasize nature immersion and cultural connection. Early concepts include a coastal ngahere (forest), outdoor classrooms, tidal pools for marine interaction, scenic 360-degree lookouts, and designated spaces for waka launches and cultural events.
This regeneration project represents a massive shift for the city, converting a formerly industrial and restricted area into a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive green heart on the harbour’s edge, creating a lasting legacy for future generations of Tāmaki Makaurau.
