Building a world-class city

From City Scene, published on 7 October, 2007

Come together - Aucklanders gather at the Britomart Quarter to celebrate Diwali, also known as the "festival of lights".

Considerable progress has been made in the last three years to implement Auckland's CBD Into the Future strategy. Tangible improvements include the new Vector Arena (which is attracting an impressive range of international acts including Gwen Stefani, Pink and the Red Hot Chili Peppers), the transformation of the Britomart Quarter, completed upgrades of Karangahape Road, Lorne Street and Vulcan Lane, and an upgrade of the Central City Library.

Less visible, but equally important, has been putting in place measures to guide future progress. These include establishing a CBD advisory board, district plan changes focusing on achieving high quality urban design, the protection of heritage buildings and character areas, purchasing waterfront land and the development of a draft CBD waterfront master plan.

Completing key projects before the 2011 Rugby World Cup will be a priority in the council's plans for the CBD during the next three years.

The Rugby World Cup could generate an estimated $240 million for Auckland - with most of the 70,000 tourists expected to visit New Zealand for the event arriving in Auckland.

These visitors, and a media contingent of about 2500 journalists, make the event a great chance to enhance our city's international profile.

Planned projects include further street and open space upgrades, the Aotea Square and Auckland Art Gallery redevelopments, a new marine events centre, and the development of the Te Wero bridge. Improvements to the city's public transport network include the new Central Connector bus route. The city's events programme also continues to grow and provide exciting opportunities for residents and visitors.